Social Darwinism

Definition

Social Darwinism is a sociological theory that applies the concept of 'survival of the fittest' from Charles Darwin's theory of evolution to human societies, suggesting that certain groups or races are inherently superior to others. This ideology was used to justify imperialism, colonialism, and racial discrimination during the Age of Exploration, as it promoted the belief that more 'advanced' nations had the right to dominate 'lesser' ones, rationalizing the exploitation and subjugation of various cultures.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social Darwinism emerged in the late 19th century as thinkers attempted to apply biological concepts of natural selection to social and economic issues.
2. This theory was often used by European powers to rationalize their colonial ambitions, arguing that their dominance was a natural outcome of their supposed superiority.
3. Prominent advocates of Social Darwinism included Herbert Spencer and William Graham Sumner, who influenced policies related to imperialism and social policy.
4. Critics of Social Darwinism pointed out its moral implications, arguing that it dehumanized colonized peoples and justified inequality.
5. The impact of Social Darwinism extended into the 20th century, influencing policies such as eugenics and immigration restrictions based on perceived racial hierarchies.

Review Questions

• How did Social Darwinism influence the attitudes of European powers towards colonized nations?
  • Social Darwinism significantly shaped European attitudes by providing a pseudo-scientific justification for imperialism. It fostered a belief that European nations were superior and had a duty to civilize 'inferior' cultures. This ideology led to widespread acceptance of colonial practices that disregarded the rights and cultures of indigenous peoples, framing domination as a natural consequence of evolutionary progress.
• Evaluate the ethical implications of Social Darwinism in relation to the justification of colonial rule during the Age of Exploration.
  • The ethical implications of Social Darwinism were profound, as it provided a moral cover for exploitation and oppression. By framing colonized peoples as 'less fit,' it dehumanized them and allowed European powers to rationalize their actions. This perspective not only justified economic exploitation but also led to cultural erasure and violence against native populations, raising serious moral questions about the legitimacy of such ideologies.
• Analyze how Social Darwinism contributed to shaping social policies in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly regarding race relations.
  • Social Darwinism played a crucial role in shaping social policies by legitimizing discriminatory practices under the guise of scientific reasoning. Its influence can be seen in eugenics movements that sought to improve societal health by promoting certain racial traits while marginalizing others. Furthermore, policies based on Social Darwinist ideas often led to immigration restrictions aimed at preserving a perceived racial purity, showcasing how deeply intertwined these ideologies were with systemic racism and inequality during this period.

Related terms

Imperialism: A policy or ideology where a country extends its power and influence through colonization, military force, or other means to control other nations or territories.

Racism: The belief that one race is superior to another, which often leads to discrimination and prejudice based on racial differences.

Eugenics: A set of beliefs and practices aimed at improving the genetic quality of a human population, often associated with the idea of selective breeding and harmful social policies.