Only occasionally is a book published that may be called startling. Yet this term is readily applied to "The New Decalogue of Science" by A. E. Wiggam. Indeed the book appears to come as a bold challenge at a time when too few writers have the courage or inclination to confront this country with some of the distinct failures of American democracy and of civilization in general. Out of a vast supply of evidence and practical proof, Mr. Wiggam has selected the material to make out a surprising case against the present trends in human development. With unusual clarity he is able to bring in his wide knowledge of biology and psychology to aid in proving his accusations.

Civilization A Hindrance To Man

The author begins by showing that the advanced races instead of pushing on, are in reality going backward, and that civilization instead of building up the races of men, is steadily dragging them down. His proof of this phenomenon rests on a firm belief that "heredity and not environment is the chief maker of men." We, as a civilized people, preserve the weaker members of our race by medicine, hygiene, and sanitation. Then, in the generations that follow, the offspring of these weaker members is as large as that of the strong; and the weaker characteristics are all passed on, quickly weakening the whole race. Before civilization discovered methods for coddling the weak, it was from the strong alone that the following generations were bred. We are faced, therefore, with the statement that morals, education, art, and even religion will not improve the human family. This, it develops, can be done only through a process of conscious biological selection and improvement. Our civilization has created an environment. It is now up to us to tackle the more important problem of furnishing the force of heredity.

The Ten Commandments of Science

Unlike many innovators, Mr. Wiggam does not break down existing beliefs, and deplore present conditions without offering adequate theories and methods for improving them. He is quick to give rules (which he believes practical), that will correct the present defects. These rules are given in the Ten Commandments of Science which form the basis of the book. They deal with the great duty devolving upon statesmanship toward eugenics, scientific research, preferential reproduction, art, and internationalism. Special emphasis is placed upon the importance of the socialization of science, of the humanizing of industry, of the trusting of intelligence, and the necessity of philosophical reconstruction. The book is concluded with a chapter on the ethical outlook; giving the mental habits necessary for the new approach to the important problems suggested by Mr. Wiggam.

This is no highly scientific treatise written for the information of the professional biologist, psychologist, or anthropologist. But it is the simple statement of vital facts regarding our civilization and the ultimate end of that civilization. And added to the interest which these startling revelations and pertinent questions naturally present is a force of expression, a frank fearlessness, and an easy wit that makes the book unusually good reading. It can not fail to interest any one who enjoys clear, sound thinking revealed in a delightful style of wit and strength.