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Mankind in the Making

Written by H. G. (Herbert George) Wells

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Social problemsSocial sciences

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About this book

"Mankind in the Making" by H. G. Wells is a philosophical work written in the early 20th century, exploring theories of social development and the evolution of human society. The book seeks to address pressing social and political issues through a new lens, suggesting that the entirety of social and political life should be viewed as part of a larger evolutionary scheme aiming for the betterment of mankind. The opening of the book provides a preface where Wells outlines the general aims and scope of his work. He candidly admits to his own limitations and aspirations, emphasizing the importance of addressing social and political questions in a coherent, constructive manner. He introduces the concept of "New Republicanism," proposing an organized doctrine that prioritizes the reproductive and developmental aspects of life, thus presenting a philosophical perspective on how societies may evolve by fostering improvements in the quality and potential of new generations.

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Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Mankind in the Making, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 12 hours
  • advanced
  • Philosophical
  • Didactic
  • Visionary

H. G. Wells' "Mankind in the Making" is a seminal early 20th-century philosophical treatise advocating for a radical re-evaluation of social and political life through an evolutionary lens. The book proposes that human society should be consciously directed towards the betterment of mankind, emphasizing the importance of improving the quality and potential of future generations. Wells introduces "New Republicanism" as a coherent doctrine, urging a shift in focus towards the reproductive and developmental aspects of human existence to foster societal evolution. It serves as a blueprint for a progressive, scientifically guided approach to social engineering, aiming to construct a more rational and advanced civilization.

“The true republic is a republic of mankind, a republic that will consider the welfare of generations yet unborn.”

Key themes

Social Evolution and Progress
This is the central organizing principle of the book. Wells posits that human society is not static but an evolving entity, and that its progress can and should be consciously directed. He views history as a trajectory towards an improved future, driven by human intelligence and organized effort.
Eugenics and Human Betterment
Though not always explicitly named as 'eugenics,' the book's emphasis on 'reproductive and developmental aspects of life' and 'fostering improvements in the quality and potential of new generations' strongly aligns with early 20th-century eugenic thought. Wells advocates for a societal focus on improving the human 'stock' through enlightened policies regarding reproduction, child-rearing, and education.
New Republicanism and Ideal Governance
Wells introduces 'New Republicanism' not as a political party, but as a philosophical and ideological framework for ideal governance. It champions a government and social structure designed to consciously facilitate human evolution and betterment, moving beyond traditional political divisions to focus on long-term societal goals and the collective good.

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To what extent should society prioritize the 'quality and potential' of future generations over individual liberties?

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