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 and survival of the fittest to human societies. This theory suggested that social, political, and economic inequalities were a natural result of competition among individuals and groups, leading to the justification of imperialism, racism, and class hierarchies. It framed societal progress as a process where the strongest individuals or races would rise, while the weaker ones would fall, which had profound implications for social critique and Realism in theatre.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social Darwinism was heavily criticized for promoting racist ideologies and justifying colonial expansion by claiming it was a natural order.
2. The movement influenced various social policies in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including eugenics, which aimed to improve the genetic quality of human populations.
3. Henrik Ibsen's plays often reflect critiques of societal norms and structures that were informed by Social Darwinist thought, challenging the idea of inherent superiority.
4. The application of Social Darwinism to economics led to laissez-faire capitalism, advocating minimal government intervention in the economy as a reflection of natural competition.
5. Social Darwinism played a role in shaping attitudes toward poverty, suggesting that the poor were responsible for their condition due to their inability to compete effectively in society.

Review Questions

• How did Social Darwinism influence the themes present in Henrik Ibsen's works?
  • Henrik Ibsen’s works often reflect themes that challenge societal norms and highlight the consequences of Social Darwinist ideology. His plays portray characters grappling with social injustices and personal dilemmas arising from rigid class structures. By addressing these issues, Ibsen critiques the notion that societal hierarchies are natural and just, instead revealing the moral implications of such beliefs on individuals and communities.
• Discuss the relationship between Social Darwinism and the rise of Realism in theatre during the late 19th century.
  • Social Darwinism contributed significantly to the rise of Realism in theatre by providing a framework through which playwrights could examine societal inequalities and human behavior. Realist playwrights used their works to reflect on the harsh realities of life shaped by competition and survival instincts, similar to Social Darwinist ideas. This resulted in a more honest portrayal of human struggles within their social contexts, allowing audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about their society.
• Evaluate the impact of Social Darwinism on societal views during the late 19th century and its implications for modern social policies.
  • Social Darwinism profoundly influenced societal views during the late 19th century by legitimizing class distinctions and racial hierarchies under the guise of natural selection. Its ideologies seeped into public policies, promoting eugenics and laissez-faire economics that marginalized vulnerable populations. The legacy of Social Darwinism can still be seen today in discussions surrounding social welfare policies, debates over inequality, and ongoing concerns about race relations, highlighting how historical perspectives can shape contemporary attitudes.

Related terms

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

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

Realism: A movement in art and literature that sought to represent everyday life and society as it is, often highlighting social issues and inequalities.