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AP US History
Social Darwinism
Social Darwinism is a belief which states that the strongest or fittest should survive and
flourish in society, while the weak and unfit should be allowed to die. The theory was
chiefly expounded by Herbert Spencer, whose ethical philosophies always held an elitist
view and received a boost from the application of Darwinian ideas such as adaptation and
natural selection. From: library.thinkquestong
Social Darwinism, term coined in the late 19th century to describe the idea that humans,
like animals and plants, compete in a struggle for existence in which natural selection
results in “survival of the fittest.” Social Darwinists base their beliefs on theories of
evolution developed by British naturalist Charles Darwin. Some social Darwinists argue
that governments should not interfere with human competition by attempting to regulate
the economy or cure social ills such as poverty. Instead, they advocate a laissez-faire
political and economic system that favors competition and self-interest in social and
business affairs. Social Darwinists typically deny that they advocate a “law of the jungle.”
But most propose arguments that justify imbalances of power between individuals, races,
and nations because they consider some people more fit to survive than others.
‘The term social Darwinist is applied loosely to anyone who sees human society primarily
in terms of struggle, competition, or natural law. Many people believe that the concept of
social Darwinism explains the philosophical rationalization behind racism, imperialism,
and capitalism. The term has negative implications for most people because they consider
ita rejection of compassion and social responsibility.
Adapted from:
Robert C. Bannister, B.A.,M.A.,Ph.D.- Social Darwinism,’ Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2008
1) What is Social Darwinism?
2) How can we apply social Darwinism to the arrival of Spanish Conquistadores in the
New World?
3) Are you a social Darwinist? Why or why not?
