Social Darwinism

Definition

Social Darwinism is a social theory that applies the concept of 'survival of the fittest' from Charles Darwin's theory of evolution to human societies. It argues that social and economic inequalities are natural and justified, promoting the idea that certain races and classes are superior to others, which influences various aspects of society including economics, politics, and imperialism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social Darwinism emerged in the late 19th century as industrialization and urbanization transformed society, providing a justification for economic inequalities and labor exploitation.
2. Prominent figures like Herbert Spencer popularized Social Darwinism, coining the phrase 'survival of the fittest' to argue against social welfare programs and for laissez-faire economics.
3. The ideology was used to rationalize imperial expansion, suggesting that stronger nations had a duty to civilize 'weaker' races.
4. Social Darwinism influenced policies regarding immigration, leading to restrictive laws that favored certain ethnic groups over others based on perceived superiority.
5. Critics of Social Darwinism pointed out its ethical implications and how it dehumanized individuals by attributing worth based solely on social status or race.

Review Questions

• How did Social Darwinism influence economic policies during the rise of industrial capitalism?
  • Social Darwinism had a significant impact on economic policies by promoting laissez-faire principles that discouraged government intervention in the market. This perspective justified harsh working conditions and low wages, as it was believed that only the most capable individuals would succeed in the competitive capitalist system. As a result, businesses operated with minimal regulation, leading to widespread exploitation of labor during the Industrial Revolution.
• Analyze how Social Darwinism shaped attitudes towards immigration in the United States during this period.
  • Social Darwinism shaped attitudes towards immigration by fostering a belief that certain races were superior to others, leading to discriminatory practices. This ideology justified restrictive immigration laws aimed at limiting the entry of individuals from perceived 'inferior' backgrounds, particularly targeting southern and eastern Europeans and Asians. By framing these groups as less fit for American society, Social Darwinism contributed to xenophobic sentiments and policies that marginalized immigrant communities.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of Social Darwinism on American society and its implications for reform movements in the Gilded Age.
  • The long-term effects of Social Darwinism on American society included deepening social divides and justifying inequalities that persisted into the 20th century. This ideology led many to oppose reform movements aimed at addressing issues like workers' rights, poverty, and racial injustice because they were viewed as attempts to interfere with natural selection. However, as critiques of Social Darwinism grew louder through progressive movements, there was a push for social reform aimed at equality and justice, which ultimately challenged these prevailing beliefs and laid the groundwork for future civil rights advancements.

Related terms

Laissez-faire:

An economic philosophy advocating minimal government intervention in the market, often associated with free-market capitalism and individualism.

Eugenics:

A movement aimed at improving the genetic quality of the human population, often through selective breeding and sterilization, which gained popularity in the early 20th century.

Imperialism:

The policy or practice by which a country extends its power and dominance over other nations or territories, often justified by notions of racial superiority.