What aspect of human behavior did Francis Galton aim to enhance through his eugenics movement?

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Prepare for the UCF CCJ3014 exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for success!

Francis Galton's eugenics movement was centered on the idea of improving the genetic quality of the population. He believed that by controlling reproduction and promoting certain desirable traits, society could enhance the overall genetic stock, leading to a healthier and more capable populace. The movement was deeply rooted in the study of heredity and aimed to apply scientific principles to social policy, particularly in regards to reproduction and family planning.

Galton's focus was heavily influenced by his observations of inheritance and the variations in human traits. He posited that if individuals with 'desirable' traits were encouraged to reproduce while those with 'undesirable' traits were discouraged, the result would be a population that exhibited better physical, mental, and moral qualities. This vision of enhancing the genetic quality aligns closely with the core goals of the eugenics movement, making it the key aspect that Galton aimed to address through his work.