From Racism to Genocide: Anthropology in the Third Reich
Gretchen E. Schafft
In paperback for the first time, From Racism to Genocide is an explosive, richly detailed account of how Nazi anthropologists justified racism, developed practical applications of racist theory, and eventually participated in every phase of the Holocaust.
Using original sources and previously unpublished documentation, Gretchen E. Schafft shows the total range of anti-human activity from within the confines of a particular discipline. Based on seven years of archival research in the United States and abroad, the work includes many original photos and documents, most of which have never before been published. It uses primary data and original texts whenever possible, including correspondence written by perpetrators. The book also reveals that the United States was not merely a bystander in this research, but instead contributed professional and financial support to early racial research that continued through the first five years of Hitler’s regime.
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About Gretchen E. Schafft
Reviews for From Racism to Genocide: Anthropology in the Third Reich
Bettina Arnold, associate professor of anthropology, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee "An informative textbook with a clear message about scientific responsibility and morality. . . . The author should be praised."
Patterns of Prejudice "A truly significant work, including important material overlooked by most scholars. Whereas scientists cherish a self-image of objectivity, the controversial
yet convincing
conclusions about German anthropologists in From Racism to Genocide should be met with great interest by scholars who have concerns about corruption of science for political purposes."
Adrian M. Wenner, professor emeritus, University of California, Santa Barbara "This careful depiction of anthropological complicity with Nazi genocide is fascinating and provocative. With so many anthropologists struggling now to create a more politically engaged discipline, this is a timely and important work."
William L. Leap, author of Word’s Out: Gay Men's English