Johann Blumenbach contributed to which idea in anthropology?

• A. 1779 - monogenist; human origins from common descent, 5 varieties (Mongolian, American, Caucasian, Malayan, Ethiopian), humans = one race with multiple varieties
• B. 1779 - polygenist
• C. 1809 - introduced clines
• D. 1859 - natural selection

Answer: (A)

Monogenism is the idea that all humans share a single origin, with variation arising within one species. Blumenbach argued this in 1779, presenting five varieties—Caucasian, Mongolian, Malayan, Ethiopian, American—yet insisting they are all members of one human species. He attributed differences to environmental influences and degeneration rather than separate ancestral origins, which sets his view apart from polygenist theories. He did not introduce the idea of clines or natural selection, which came from later thinkers. So the best answer reflects his monogenist stance of a single origin with several human varieties.