It is the standing example of a Divinely aided will holding the sensual passion in check. The crux of the eugenic question is in the proposals for segregation and sterilization. Both may be either voluntary or compulsory. The aim is to prevent defectives from propagating their kind. Segregation means not only the separation of defectives from the rest of the community but also separation of the sexes from each other amongst the defectives themselves.
Sterilization is a surgical operation by which the subjects are made incapable of procreation.
Formerly it consisted of castration in men, and excision of the ovaries in women. They are not grave when considered as dangerous operations, but they are grave as regards their moral effects. Herein lies the difficulty of judging them. The Holy Office has not yet given any decision concerning them. Speculatively speaking, therefore, the question is open.