Social Darwinism

Definition

Social Darwinism is a sociological theory that applies Charles Darwin's ideas of natural selection and survival of the fittest to human societies, suggesting that social progress results from the struggle for existence among individuals, nations, or races. This concept was often used to justify imperialism, racism, and social inequality by arguing that certain groups were inherently superior and more evolved than others.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social Darwinism gained traction in the late 19th century during a time of intense competition among nations, particularly in the context of colonial expansion and imperialism.
2. The belief in the superiority of certain races led to discriminatory practices and policies, which justified colonial rule as a 'civilizing mission'.
3. Social Darwinists often argued that welfare programs and assistance to the poor were detrimental to society, as they interfered with the natural selection process.
4. This ideology influenced various political movements and policies in the early 20th century, including justifications for war and conflict based on racial superiority.
5. Prominent figures such as Herbert Spencer popularized Social Darwinism by coining phrases like 'survival of the fittest', linking it with economic competition and social hierarchy.

Review Questions

• How did Social Darwinism shape attitudes towards imperialism during the late 19th and early 20th centuries?
  • Social Darwinism provided a justification for imperialism by suggesting that stronger nations had a natural right to conquer weaker ones. Proponents believed that dominating other countries was a way to promote progress and civilization. This ideology led to the belief that colonial powers were not only entitled but also obligated to 'civilize' what they considered inferior races, reinforcing harmful stereotypes and exploitation.
• Discuss the implications of Social Darwinism on social policies related to welfare and poverty in early 20th-century Europe.
  • Social Darwinism had significant implications for social policies at the time, with many arguing that welfare programs were harmful because they supported those deemed 'unfit' to survive. This led to a reluctance to implement social safety nets, as it was believed that allowing natural selection to take its course would ultimately strengthen society. The idea promoted a harsh view on poverty, viewing it as a natural consequence of weaker individuals failing to compete.
• Evaluate how Social Darwinism influenced Nazi ideology and racial policies in Germany during the Third Reich.
  • Social Darwinism heavily influenced Nazi ideology by providing a pseudo-scientific rationale for their beliefs in Aryan supremacy and anti-Semitic policies. The Nazis adopted concepts of natural selection to justify their discriminatory practices against Jews, disabled individuals, and other groups they deemed inferior. This ideology not only fostered widespread racism but also legitimized horrific actions such as eugenics programs and the Holocaust, as they viewed these measures as necessary for the survival of the Aryan race.

Related terms

Natural Selection: The process through which species adapt and evolve over time, where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and reproduce more successfully.

Eugenics: A social philosophy advocating for the improvement of human genetic traits through selective breeding and sterilization, often linked to discriminatory ideologies.

Imperialism: A policy or ideology where a country extends its power and influence over other nations or territories, often justified by beliefs in cultural or racial superiority.