polygenesis Definition
the theory that different races or groups of humans have separate origins.
Using polygenesis: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "polygenesis" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Polygenesis was a popular theory in the 19th century, but it has since been discredited by modern science.
Example
The idea of polygenesis was used to justify racial discrimination and slavery in the past.
Example
Polygenesis is opposed to the theory of monogenesis, which posits that all humans have a single origin.
polygenesis Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for polygenesis
- polygenism
- polyphyletic theory
Phrases with polygenesis
the belief that different human races evolved from different species of primates
Example
Scientific polygenesis was a popular theory in the 19th century.
the belief that different human races were created separately by God
Example
Theological polygenesis was used to justify racial discrimination and slavery.
the belief that different cultures and civilizations have separate origins
Example
Cultural polygenesis is a popular topic in anthropology.
Origins of polygenesis
from Greek 'polys', meaning 'many' and 'genesis', meaning 'origin'
Summary: polygenesis in Brief
Polygenesis [pol-ee-jen-uh-sis] is a theory that suggests different races or groups of humans have separate origins. It was popular in the 19th century but has since been discredited by modern science. Polygenesis is opposed to the theory of monogenesis, which posits that all humans have a single origin.
