Question

Euphenics is
A. Improvement of the human race by a better environment.
B. Improvement of the human race by genetic engineering.
C. Treatment of communicable diseases.
D. Treatment of inheritable diseases.

Answer 1

The term Euphenics refers to improvement in the human race by modifying the biological development of the individual.

Complete Answer:
Euphenics is the symptomatic treatment of genetic diseases of human beings. It deals with the control of several inherited human diseases such as inborn errors of metabolism.

- Option a: The study of the improvement of human functioning and well-being by the improvement of living conditions is termed euthenics. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

- Option b: Euphenics refers to the treatment of deleterious phenotypic effects of a genetic defect especially without altering the genetic makeup of the germplasm of the individual. It is the improvement of phenotypic effect in humans after their birth by genetic engineering. Therefore, this option is correct.

- Option c: Communicable diseases are treated with antibiotics and other supportive medicines. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

- Option d: Although all genetic disorders cannot be treated as it is not possible to alter the underlying genetic mutation. However, some of the genetic disorders can be treated with gene therapy. Gene therapy involves a change in a person's genes to prevent or treat a disease. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

Hence the correct answer is option B.

Note: Eugenics is the selection of desired heritable characteristics to improve future human generations. It can be used to prevent passing off bad genes or disease causing genes.