The science of heredity will soon provide power on a stupendous scale; and in some country, at some time not, perhaps, far distant, that power will be applied to control the composition of a nation. Where the institution of such control will ultimately be good or bad for that nation, or for humanity at large, is a separate question.
-- William Bateson ("A Certain Mendel")

Importance: This quote foreshadows the evils of eugenics that would be perpetuated in the early 20th century through American sterilization protocols, the Nazi genocide, and the Soviet attempts to "reprogram" their population. This quote highlights the idea that extraordinary scientific developments, such as advancements in genetics, come with extraordinary ethical implications, particularly when power dynamics are involved. Bateson's uncertainty about whether or not the powerful impact of genetics would be used positively or negatively reflects the neutrality of science and its ability to be used for either good or evil when put...