key term - Social Darwinism

Definition

Social Darwinism is a social theory that emerged in the late 19th century, asserting that human societies and cultures evolve through the same natural selection process as biological species. This ideology was often used to justify imperialism and the belief in racial superiority, leading to the idea that stronger nations had the right to dominate weaker ones. It also contributed to justifications for mass atrocities by suggesting that certain groups were naturally superior and more fit for survival.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social Darwinism gained popularity during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, influencing various aspects of society, including politics, economics, and social policies.
2. It was used to rationalize colonial expansion, as imperialists argued that they were bringing civilization to 'lesser' societies.
3. The ideology supported the notion of 'survival of the fittest' in social contexts, promoting competition among races and nations as a natural order.
4. Many prominent figures, including politicians and intellectuals, endorsed Social Darwinism, which contributed to its widespread acceptance and implementation in policies.
5. Social Darwinism played a significant role in justifying the mass atrocities committed during events like the Holocaust and various genocides by framing them as natural outcomes of competition between races.

Review Questions

• How did Social Darwinism provide a justification for imperialism during the late 19th century?
  • Social Darwinism offered a pseudo-scientific rationale for imperialism by promoting the idea that stronger nations had an inherent right to conquer weaker ones. Proponents believed that through imperialism, they were helping to uplift 'inferior' societies, which they deemed necessary for progress. This ideology framed colonial domination as a natural consequence of evolution, encouraging expansionist policies among European powers.
• In what ways did Social Darwinism influence attitudes towards race and justify social hierarchies in society?
  • Social Darwinism fostered attitudes that promoted racial superiority, claiming that certain races were biologically destined to dominate others. This led to systemic racism and the establishment of social hierarchies where 'superior' races were seen as more capable of survival and success. The consequences of these beliefs were evident in discriminatory laws and practices, such as segregation and exclusionary immigration policies.
• Evaluate the impact of Social Darwinism on societal views regarding mass atrocities in the 20th century.
  • Social Darwinism significantly shaped societal views on mass atrocities by framing them as part of a natural order of competition among races. This ideology led some to rationalize horrific events like genocide as necessary for the advancement of society or the preservation of 'superior' groups. By depicting certain populations as less fit or deserving of survival, Social Darwinism helped create an environment where atrocities could be justified and normalized under the guise of social progress.

Related terms

Imperialism:

A policy or ideology where a country extends its power and dominance over other nations or territories, often justified by beliefs of superiority.

Racism:

The belief that different races possess distinct characteristics, abilities, or qualities that justify discrimination and superiority of one race over others.

Eugenics:

A controversial movement aimed at improving the genetic quality of a human population, often associated with ideas of racial purity and selective breeding.