Survival of the fittest

Definition

Survival of the fittest is a phrase that originated from Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection, signifying the idea that individuals or species best adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce. This concept emphasizes competition, adaptation, and the role of environmental factors in shaping the evolution of species. In literature, it reflects themes of struggle, resilience, and the impact of societal forces on individuals, often highlighting the harsh realities of existence and the complex interplay between nature and nurture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The phrase 'survival of the fittest' was coined by philosopher Herbert Spencer and later associated with Darwin's work, though Darwin himself did not use this exact phrase.
2. In literature, this concept often serves as a backdrop for characters facing ethical dilemmas, societal pressures, or existential challenges that force them to adapt or perish.
3. Key literary works influenced by the idea include Jack London's 'The Call of the Wild' and Stephen Crane's 'The Red Badge of Courage,' where characters exhibit traits necessary for survival in harsh environments.
4. Survival of the fittest has been critiqued for its potential misuse in justifying social inequalities or imperialism through social Darwinism, impacting cultural narratives in literature.
5. The influence of Darwin's theories on literature extends beyond character struggles to broader societal themes, including industrialization, capitalism, and human evolution.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of survival of the fittest manifest in character development within key literary works?
  • In many literary works, survival of the fittest is crucial for character development as individuals must adapt to their environments to overcome challenges. For example, in Jack London's 'The Call of the Wild,' Buck transforms from a domesticated dog into a fierce survivor in the wild, showcasing how struggle and adaptation shape his identity. This theme reflects not only personal growth but also highlights broader existential questions regarding human nature and resilience.
• Analyze how survival of the fittest intersects with themes of social inequality in literature inspired by Darwinian ideas.
  • Survival of the fittest often intersects with social inequality themes by portraying characters from various social classes facing different levels of challenge. Works like Upton Sinclair's 'The Jungle' illustrate how industrialization creates environments where only the most adaptable thrive, while others suffer due to systemic issues. This relationship emphasizes how societal structures can dictate who survives and who does not, critiquing economic systems that perpetuate inequality.
• Evaluate the broader implications of survival of the fittest on societal norms and values as reflected in literature after Darwin.
  • The broader implications of survival of the fittest on societal norms reveal a shift towards valuing individualism and competition within culture. Literature post-Darwin often portrays characters navigating harsh realities where adaptability becomes synonymous with moral and physical success. This shift influences societal values around self-reliance and meritocracy but also raises ethical concerns about neglecting those who struggle to survive due to socio-economic barriers. The nuanced portrayal in literature compels readers to reconsider what it means to truly thrive in society.

Related terms

natural selection: A process in biology where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring, influencing evolutionary changes over time.

social Darwinism: A societal application of Darwin's theories, suggesting that human societies evolve through competition and that social policies should align with the idea of 'survival of the fittest.'

literary realism: A literary movement that aims to represent everyday life and society as they are, often exploring themes of struggle and social conditions influenced by Darwinian ideas.