what is social Darwinism?
Under ‘Social Darwinism’ human social order was the result of evolution—those on |
Social Darwinism is a term coined by Herbert Spencer. It is described as a theory that people are subject to the same laws of natural selection (suggested by Charles Darwin) in which plants and animals are subject to. It can be applied to economic, political, and social issues.
Herbert Spencer believed that life in society consisted of a struggle for existence due to “survival of the fittest", a term he came up with. The strong would rise to the top, while the weaker fell to the bottom. This term can easily be applied to describe the influence and power of large businesses. They were able to overpower and eventually crush small businesses. Wealth was a sign of natural superiority and having little money was a sign of being unfit to survive in society. The theory was used from the late 19th century to support laissez-faire capitalism. |