Social Darwinism

Definition

Social Darwinism is a sociopolitical theory that applies Charles Darwin's ideas about natural selection and evolution to human societies, suggesting that certain groups or races are inherently superior to others and thus more 'fit' for survival and success. This ideology was used to justify colonial expansion, imperialism, and social policies that favored the wealthy while marginalizing the poor and non-European races during European colonial expansion in Africa and the Americas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social Darwinism emerged in the late 19th century as industrialization and imperialism were on the rise, providing a pseudo-scientific rationale for racial hierarchies.
2. Proponents of Social Darwinism believed that societal progress resulted from competition among individuals and groups, mirroring the survival of the fittest concept in nature.
3. This ideology was often used to justify the exploitation of colonized peoples, framing European imperial endeavors as a means of bringing civilization to 'lesser' races.
4. Social Darwinism influenced various social policies in Europe and America, leading to discriminatory practices against immigrants and minority groups under the guise of promoting societal improvement.
5. Key figures such as Herbert Spencer popularized Social Darwinism, coining the phrase 'survival of the fittest,' which further ingrained these ideas into societal norms and policies.

Review Questions

• How did Social Darwinism influence European colonial expansion during the 19th century?
  • Social Darwinism provided a justification for European powers to expand their empires into Africa and the Americas by framing their actions as a natural progression of civilization. The belief that European races were superior led colonial powers to view themselves as bearers of progress, tasked with civilizing what they considered 'lesser' societies. This ideology not only legitimized imperial conquests but also fueled racism and exploitation, as colonizers often disregarded the rights and cultures of indigenous populations.
• Evaluate the impact of Social Darwinism on social policies in Europe and America during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
  • Social Darwinism profoundly impacted social policies by promoting ideas that justified inequality based on race and class. Policies influenced by this ideology often supported eugenics movements, which aimed to control reproduction among certain groups deemed 'unfit.' Additionally, it fostered discrimination against immigrants and marginalized communities by reinforcing stereotypes about their supposed inferiority. Overall, Social Darwinism contributed to systemic inequalities entrenched in legal and social frameworks during this period.
• Critically analyze how Social Darwinism has shaped contemporary views on race and ethnicity in modern society.
  • The legacy of Social Darwinism can still be observed in contemporary discussions about race, ethnicity, and social policy. Although overtly racist ideologies have been widely discredited, echoes of Social Darwinist thought persist in debates around immigration, welfare, and social justice. Some modern interpretations can manifest in policies that disproportionately affect marginalized communities under the guise of promoting economic efficiency or national security. A critical analysis reveals how these historical ideas continue to influence societal attitudes toward race and contribute to ongoing disparities.

Related terms

Imperialism:

A policy or ideology where a nation extends its power and influence over other countries through colonization, military force, or other means.

Eugenics: A movement aimed at improving the genetic quality of a human population through selective breeding and other interventions, often associated with ideas of racial superiority.

Racism: The belief that different races possess distinct characteristics, abilities, or qualities, leading to the notion that some races are inherently superior or inferior to others.