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There is only one reply to a request for a higher…

“There is only one reply to a request for a higher birthrate among the intelligent, and that is to ask the government to first take the burden of the insane and feeble-minded from your back. [Mandatory] sterilization for these is the answer.” quote by Margaret Sanger
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“There is only one reply to a request for a higher birthrate among the intelligent, and that is to ask the government to first take the burden of the insane and feeble-minded from your back. [Mandatory] sterilization for these is the answer.”

Margaret Sanger

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Advocates forced sterilization of the “insane and feeble‑minded” as a prerequisite to encouraging higher birthrates among the intelligent.

In simple terms: Promotes eugenic control.

Key Takeaway

Question ethical implications.

Themes

eugenics population control ethics public policy

Mood

somber reflective

Type

historical ethical

When to use this quote

  • public health policy
  • legislation
  • social welfare debates
  • historical analysis

Key Concepts

historical eugenics human rights

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we protect vulnerable populations today?
  • What safeguards prevent eugenic policies?
A Different Perspective

The view is morally abhorrent and historically discredited.

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