Hereditary Genius (Barnes & Noble Digital Library)

In 1869, Galton, a Victorian polymath, composed this first scientific study attempting to establish a link between lineage and accomplishment. In a work that remains controversial to this day, he reached the conclusion that intelligence and ability are inherited, and that intelligence itself is a major contributor to success in life. In the battle of nature versus nurture, Galton was of the opinion that nature will always win.