Social Darwinism

Definition

Social Darwinism is a socio-political theory that applies the concept of 'survival of the fittest' from Charles Darwin's theory of evolution to human societies. This ideology was used to justify imperialism, colonialism, and racial superiority, claiming that certain races or nations were naturally superior and destined to dominate others.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social Darwinism gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, influencing policies during the Scramble for Africa as European powers justified their colonial ambitions.
2. This ideology was often misapplied to support the idea that imperialist nations had a natural right to conquer and exploit other territories based on perceived racial hierarchies.
3. Notable figures like Herbert Spencer popularized Social Darwinism, coining the phrase 'survival of the fittest' to apply it to societal progress.
4. Social Darwinists believed that competition among races led to the advancement of civilization, dismissing humanitarian concerns regarding colonization and exploitation.
5. The application of Social Darwinism contributed to global inequalities, with lasting impacts on international relations and racial policies well into the 20th century.

Review Questions

• How did Social Darwinism influence European attitudes towards colonization during the Scramble for Africa?
  • Social Darwinism shaped European attitudes by promoting the belief that imperial powers were superior and thus justified in conquering African nations. This ideology framed colonization as a natural process where stronger nations would dominate weaker ones, reinforcing stereotypes about African cultures as inferior. The result was a significant expansion of European empires in Africa, driven by a misguided belief in racial hierarchies.
• In what ways did Social Darwinism intersect with racial theories during the late 19th century?
  • Social Darwinism intersected with racial theories by providing a pseudo-scientific basis for claims of racial superiority. It suggested that certain races were more evolved and capable than others, leading to widespread discrimination and justification for colonial practices. This ideological framework facilitated oppressive policies against colonized peoples and fueled movements that sought to maintain white supremacy under the guise of social progress.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of Social Darwinism on contemporary societal structures and international relations.
  • The long-term consequences of Social Darwinism are evident in persistent global inequalities and ongoing debates about race and power dynamics. The ideology has contributed to systemic racism and xenophobia, as it promoted the idea that some groups are inherently superior. Additionally, its legacy can be seen in how historical injustices continue to shape international relations today, where former colonial powers often grapple with their past actions while addressing modern implications of inequality and cultural hegemony.

Related terms

Imperialism: The policy or ideology of extending a country's power and influence through colonization, military force, or other means.

Racial Superiority: The belief that certain races possess inherent qualities that make them superior to others, often used to justify discrimination and inequality.

Eugenics: A movement aimed at improving the genetic quality of the human population, often through selective breeding and policies that discriminated against those deemed 'unfit.'