Social Darwinism is a theory that applies the concept of "survival of the fittest" from biological evolution to human societies. It suggests that societal progress comes from competition and natural selection among individuals, races, or nations.
Think of it like a game of musical chairs. The music plays (society progresses), and when it stops (a challenge arises), only those who are quickest or strongest secure a chair (survive). Those left standing are considered less fit for survival.
Eugenics: This is a movement aimed at improving the genetic composition of humans through controlled breeding, often associated with Social Darwinism due to its focus on 'improving' humanity's fitness.
Capitalism: An economic system where private entities own the means of production and operate for profit. It's related because Social Darwinists often use this theory to justify laissez-faire capitalism - let businesses compete without government interference.
Racism: Prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against someone of a different race based on the belief that one's own race is superior. Racism can be justified through Social Darwinist beliefs by arguing some races are naturally superior.
AP US History - 4.6 Market Revolution: Society and Culture
AP US History - 6.6 The Rise of Industrial Capitalism
AP US History - 6.9 Responses to Immigration
AP US History - 6.12 Controversies over the Role of Government
AP US History - 6.14 Continuity and Change in Period 6
AP US History - 7.2 Imperialism: Debates
What is Social Darwinism?
Who argued that Social Darwinism should be applied to markets?
In what way does the concept of Manifest Destiny in the mid-19th century relate to Social Darwinism in the late-19th and early-20th centuries?
Who is most associated with promoting Social Darwinism during the Gilded Age?
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