The theory or belief that genetic factors determine traits, behavior, or social characteristics, sometimes to an extreme degree.
Genetic + -ism suffix. Emerged as a critical term in the 20th century to describe overemphasis on genetic determinism and biological essentialism.
Geneticism became a cautionary term after WWII when scientists pointed out that Nazi racial theories were based on dangerous genetic determinism—showing how the wrong beliefs about inherited traits led to horrific actions.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.