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The word hygiene refers to practices and conditions that promote health. What then is racial hygiene? What words or phrases come to mind when you think of "good hygiene"? When you think of "poor hygiene"? How do you think having a physician like Ploetz link eugenic ideas to health, cleanliness, and physical well being shaped public opinion about the disabled and the mentally ill?
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How do you think the labeling of groups as "unfit" or a "burden" on society may have shaped the way individuals saw themselves or others? What effect might that kind of labeling have on the way Germans defined their "universe of obligation"- the circle of individuals and groups toward whom they have obligations, to whom the rules of society apply, and whose injuries call for amends?
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What does Karl Bonhoeffer fear may happen as a result of Germany's experiences during the war? Why does he call it the "danger of going too far"? How do you think Binding and Hoche might respond to his comments? How might a eugenicist like Ploetz or Charles Davenport respond?
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