Social Darwinism

Definition

Social Darwinism is a sociopolitical theory that applies the concept of 'survival of the fittest,' originally coined by Charles Darwin in the context of natural selection, to human societies. This theory suggests that certain races or groups are naturally superior to others, justifying social inequality and imperialism as part of a natural order. It has been used to legitimize discriminatory practices and policies throughout history, making it a significant aspect of scientific racism and its enduring legacy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social Darwinism emerged in the late 19th century, gaining traction during a time of rapid industrialization and colonial expansion.
2. Proponents of social Darwinism often misinterpreted Darwin's theories, applying biological concepts to justify social and economic inequalities among different races.
3. It was used to rationalize a range of practices, including imperialism, segregation, and forced sterilization policies in the 20th century.
4. Key figures associated with social Darwinism include Herbert Spencer, who promoted the idea that societal progress results from competition among individuals and groups.
5. The legacy of social Darwinism continues to influence contemporary discussions around race, privilege, and inequality, highlighting the importance of critically examining its historical impact.

Review Questions

• How did social Darwinism influence attitudes toward imperialism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries?
  • Social Darwinism greatly influenced attitudes toward imperialism by promoting the belief that 'superior' races had a natural right to conquer 'inferior' ones. This ideology framed colonial expansion as a benevolent act, suggesting that it was the duty of stronger nations to civilize those deemed weaker. As a result, social Darwinist thought justified various forms of exploitation and oppression during the age of imperialism.
• Discuss how eugenics is related to social Darwinism and the implications it had on society during its rise.
  • Eugenics is closely related to social Darwinism as both ideologies share the belief in the inherent superiority of certain groups over others. The eugenics movement sought to improve human populations through selective breeding based on these ideas. The implications were profound, leading to discriminatory laws and practices such as forced sterilizations and marriage restrictions aimed at those deemed 'unfit.' This demonstrates how social Darwinism laid the groundwork for pseudoscientific justification of human rights violations.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of social Darwinism on modern discussions surrounding race and equality.
  • The long-term effects of social Darwinism on modern discussions surrounding race and equality are significant and complex. Its ideas have permeated societal views on privilege and discrimination, contributing to ongoing debates about systemic racism and inequality. As contemporary society grapples with the remnants of these ideologies, there is a critical need to challenge these historical narratives and work toward a more equitable understanding of diversity that acknowledges past injustices rather than perpetuating them.

Related terms

Eugenics: A movement aimed at improving the genetic quality of a human population through selective breeding and other forms of intervention, often associated with social Darwinist ideas.

Racial Hierarchy: A social system in which groups of people are ranked one above the other based on perceived racial superiority, often justified by social Darwinist beliefs.

Colonialism: The practice of acquiring control over another country or territory, often justified by social Darwinist views that see imperial domination as a natural progression for 'superior' societies.