Social Darwinism

Definition

Social Darwinism is a social theory that applies the concept of 'survival of the fittest' from Charles Darwin's theories of evolution to human societies. It suggests that certain individuals or groups are naturally superior to others, often used to justify imperialism, racism, and social inequality by arguing that stronger nations and races have the right to dominate weaker ones, reflecting a belief in the natural hierarchy among humans.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social Darwinism gained prominence in the late 19th century and was widely used to rationalize imperialist expansion and colonial rule by powerful nations over perceived weaker societies.
2. The ideology supported racial hierarchies, suggesting that some races were inherently superior and thus justified discrimination and social policies that favored these groups.
3. Prominent figures like Herbert Spencer popularized the term 'survival of the fittest,' applying it beyond biology to justify social policies and economic practices favoring competition.
4. Social Darwinism influenced various social policies, including eugenics and immigration restrictions, based on the belief that certain groups were 'unfit' for societal inclusion.
5. Critics argue that Social Darwinism misapplies biological concepts to social issues, ignoring cultural, economic, and historical contexts that shape human societies.

Review Questions

• How did Social Darwinism influence imperialist policies during the late 19th century?
  • Social Darwinism played a crucial role in shaping imperialist policies by providing a pseudo-scientific justification for the domination of weaker nations by stronger ones. Proponents argued that imperialism was a natural outcome of competition between races and nations, asserting that superior societies had the right to conquer and civilize those deemed inferior. This ideology allowed imperial powers to rationalize their expansionist activities as part of a supposed natural order.
• Evaluate the impact of Social Darwinism on social policies related to race and immigration in the early 20th century.
  • Social Darwinism significantly impacted social policies concerning race and immigration by promoting eugenics and restrictive immigration laws. It reinforced the idea that certain races were biologically superior while others were inferior. This belief led to discriminatory practices such as forced sterilization of those deemed 'unfit' and strict immigration quotas targeting specific ethnic groups. These policies reflected societal acceptance of racial hierarchies rooted in Social Darwinist thinking.
• Assess the long-term consequences of Social Darwinism on modern social theories and practices.
  • The long-term consequences of Social Darwinism on modern social theories are profound, as it has shaped discussions on race, inequality, and public policy. Its legacy includes ongoing debates about genetic determinism versus environmental factors in shaping human behavior and social outcomes. Additionally, Social Darwinism's influence persists in contemporary issues such as social justice movements and discussions about systemic inequality, prompting critical examination of how historical ideologies continue to affect present-day societal structures.

Related terms

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

Racism: The belief that different races possess distinct characteristics, abilities, or qualities, often used to justify discrimination and unequal treatment of people based on their race.

Nationalism: A political ideology that emphasizes loyalty, devotion, or allegiance to a nation or nation-state and promotes the interests of a particular nation, often at the expense of other nations.