Degeneration - Definition and Overview

The idea of degeneration had a huge influence or science, art and politics from the 1850s to the 1950s.

In the 1850s French doctor Benedict Morel argued that certain groups of people were degenerating, going backwards in terms of evolution so each generation became weaker and weaker. This was based on pre-Darwinian ideas of evolution, especially those of Lamarck, who argued that acquired characteristics (drug habits, perversions, etc.) could be inherited. This is not true, as a matter of genetics.

A whole biological explanation for social problems was developed. Max Nordau's 1890s bestseller Degeneration attempted to explain all modern art, music and literature by pointing out the degenerate characteristics of the artists involved.

In the twentieth century the Nazis adopted the concept, using it to justify the sterilization and extermination of those who would otherwise corrupt future generations. They also used the concept in art, banning "degenerate" (entartete) art and music: see degenerate art.

For further information, see Daniel Pick's book Degeneration, or the work of Sander Gilman.

See also: degeneracy.