CHAPTER IX.. Consanguineous Marriages.

CONSANGUINEOUS MARRIAGES.

Different views in relation to the influence of consanguinity-- The customs of the ancient Egyptians, Syrians, and others-- Experiments in the inter-breeding of cattle--Popular impressions as to its effects--Opposite views explained by understanding the laws of heredity--Favorable as well as unfavorable tendencies are increased--Hence unfavorable ones may be eliminated 145