Social Darwinism

Definition

Social Darwinism is a socio-political theory that emerged in the late 19th century, applying Charles Darwin's ideas of natural selection to human societies. This concept suggested that social progress resulted from the survival of the fittest, justifying inequality and the dominance of certain individuals or groups over others, often used to rationalize imperialism and economic disparity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social Darwinism gained traction among industrial era tycoons who used it to justify their monopolistic practices and the extreme wealth disparities of the time.
2. The theory provided a rationale for policies such as racial segregation and imperial expansion, suggesting that stronger nations had the right to dominate weaker ones.
3. Critics of Social Darwinism argued that it misapplied biological concepts to social issues, ignoring the complexity of human societies and ethical considerations.
4. The Interstate Commerce Act was influenced by Social Darwinist ideas, as proponents believed that competition among businesses would lead to a more efficient economy without governmental oversight.
5. Robber barons often embraced Social Darwinism as a way to legitimize their wealth and power, portraying themselves as naturally superior leaders in an evolving society.

Review Questions

• How did social darwinism influence the practices of industrial era tycoons in America?
  • Social Darwinism influenced industrial era tycoons by providing them with a philosophical justification for their monopolistic practices and vast wealth. They argued that their success was a result of being 'fit' in a competitive market, while those who failed were seen as less deserving. This mindset reinforced the idea that inequality was a natural part of society, allowing tycoons to operate without moral hesitation regarding labor conditions and fair competition.
• Discuss how the Interstate Commerce Act reflected social darwinist beliefs about competition and regulation.
  • The Interstate Commerce Act reflected social darwinist beliefs by promoting the idea that natural competition among businesses would lead to economic efficiency. Advocates believed that regulating interstate commerce would disrupt the 'survival of the fittest' principle, which they felt should govern the economy. As such, they feared that government intervention would hinder growth and undermine the competitive forces deemed necessary for societal advancement.
• Evaluate the impact of social darwinism on societal attitudes towards inequality and governance during the late 19th century.
  • Social Darwinism significantly impacted societal attitudes towards inequality and governance by normalizing disparities in wealth and status as natural phenomena. It fostered an environment where policies favoring laissez-faire economics were embraced, as many believed that government intervention contradicted the natural order. This ideology also justified racist and imperialist attitudes, promoting a belief that stronger nations had a duty to dominate weaker ones. Consequently, it shaped public policy and social norms for decades, leaving a complex legacy regarding ethics in governance and social responsibility.

Related terms

Natural Selection: A biological process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring, influencing evolutionary change.

Eugenics: A movement aimed at improving the genetic quality of the human population, often associated with controversial practices and ideologies of superiority.

Laissez-Faire Economics: An economic philosophy advocating minimal government intervention in business and economic affairs, closely linked to the principles behind Social Darwinism.