Eugenics of F. Galton and the “hygiene of marriage” of V. M. Florinsky in the context of Orthodox anthropology

Abstract

In his work “The Improvement and degeneration of the human race” (1866) the Russian scientist Professor V. M. Florinsky outlined ideas on the hygiene of marriage and the improvement of the human race much earlier than Professor F. Galton introduced the term “eugenics” and formulated his concept (1883). However, their views have something in common, and in the history of science, it was F. Galton, Charles Darwin’s cousin, who was recognized as the founder of eugenics, which is largely due to his family ties with the creator of evolutionary theory and his active work in institutionalizing the eugenics movement. The article is devoted to a comparative theological and anthropological analysis of the concepts of F. Galton and V. M. Florinsky. The article examines the ideological foundations of both concepts and their relation to the Christian understanding of man. Particular attention is given to the critical analysis of V. M. Florinsky’s attempt to reconcile the idea of “perfecting the human race” with the Orthodox faith. It is concluded that the presence of Christian terminology and relevant intentions does not eliminate certain contradictions with Orthodox anthropology.