Francis Galton

Pioneers of Human Behaviour: Francis Galton
A Gateway to His Life, Theories, and Legacy

Francis Galton was a man of extraordinary curiosity and influence — a pioneer of statistics, psychometrics, and fingerprint identification, but also the controversial founder of eugenics. His work helped shape modern science, while also sparking some of the most important ethical debates in history.

In this concise yet powerful volume, Pioneers of Human Behaviour: Francis Galton distils his life’s work into clear, engaging chapters. From his early explorations in Africa to his groundbreaking statistical innovations and deeply divisive social theories, this book offers both a portrait of the man and a gateway into his complex legacy.

Alongside an accessible exploration of Galton’s theories, you’ll discover:

• How Galton developed the statistical tools of correlation and regression

• His role in establishing fingerprint identification in forensic science

• The origins of psychometrics and early intelligence testing

• His controversial advocacy for eugenics — and its enduring consequences

• How his ideas still influence science, policy, and ethical debate today

Part biography, part theory guide, and part reflection on his legacy, this book makes Galton’s contributions understandable without overlooking their dangers. Whether you are a student, researcher, or simply curious about the history of human behaviour, this volume offers a balanced, engaging introduction to one of science’s most brilliant — and divisive — figures.

The Pioneers of Human Behaviour series celebrates the lives and legacies of psychology’s greatest minds, presenting timeless insights in a format designed to inspire, inform, and endure.