Jasper County Democrat, Volume 18, Number 7, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 1 May 1915 — Imfluence of Environment Greater Than That of Heredity [ARTICLE]

Imfluence of Environment Greater Than That of Heredity

By Mrs. PATRICK CAMPBELL,

Famous Actress

WHETHER environment, means more than hqredity in the life of individuals is a question that has occupied much time and thought of scientists interested in biology and philosophy. I suppose most scientists contend that heredity counts for more with most individuals than environment. But I am of the opinion that usually environment means more than heredity. We have many brilliant examples of this in history and in everyday life WHERE MEN AND WOMEN HAVE COMMENCED LIFE IN THE MEANEST AND HUMBLEST CONDITIONS AND THROUGH A FORTUNATE CHANGE OF ENVIRONMENT HAVE DEVELOPED THEIR POWERS AND GAINED REAL CULTURE. The question still remains, “Is it wise to take men and women who are happy in one social class and put them in another in a reckless fashion?” I think it is most unwise. STILL, IN REAL LIFE WE SHOULD BE VERY CAREFUL. MANY MEN AND WOMEN MAY BE HAPRY AND LEADING USEFUL LIVES WHERE THEY ARE.- BY TRANSPLANTING THEM TO ANOTHER ENVIRONMENT WE MAY MAKE THEM VERY MISERABLE.