Von der Plastizität der menschlichen Typen

Summary

During the last decades anthropology has produced a number of proofs for the plasticity of types as posited byBoas (1913). The theoretical basis for plasticity was provided by the modern theory of heredity with its interpretation of the genetic characteristics as possibilities of reaction and as modifiable reaction norms. Practically, the modifications of European head forms and of statures of different groups shown in the history of races can be traced, at least in part, to the plasticity of types. At present the influence of hunger in war and post-war times furnish clear evidence for plasticity of types. Furthermore, the increasing frequency of caries in the racial history, the changes of the beginning of puberty in our days, the increase of goitre in post-war times, and other observations point out definite factors as causes of plasticity; however, conditions are different in diverse territories and population groups. Thus the plasticity of types is proved; it is most important for the application and effect of educational and medical measures.