Social Darwinism

Definition

Social Darwinism is a sociological theory that applies the concept of 'survival of the fittest,' originally coined by Charles Darwin in the context of natural selection, to human societies. It suggests that social progress and economic success come from competition and that those who are most capable will rise to the top, while those deemed less fit will naturally fall behind. This idea is crucial in understanding the themes of Naturalism found in literature, particularly as it pertains to how characters navigate their environment and social structures.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social Darwinism gained traction in the late 19th century as a way to justify social inequalities and imperialistic policies under the guise of 'natural law.'
2. In literature, Social Darwinism often manifests through characters facing harsh environments and societal challenges, highlighting their struggles for survival.
3. Naturalist authors like Stephen Crane, Theodore Dreiser, and Frank Norris used Social Darwinist concepts to depict the brutal realities of life, focusing on how socio-economic factors limit individual agency.
4. The belief in Social Darwinism was often misused to justify racist and xenophobic ideologies, as it promoted the idea that certain races were more 'fit' than others.
5. Critics of Social Darwinism argue that it oversimplifies human society and ignores the role of cooperation and altruism in social progress.

Review Questions

• How does Social Darwinism influence the portrayal of characters in Naturalist literature?
  • Social Darwinism heavily influences character portrayal in Naturalist literature by emphasizing how individuals are shaped by their social environment and inherent traits. Characters often face overwhelming challenges that test their survival instincts, showcasing the struggle between those who thrive and those who fail. This perspective highlights the deterministic nature of their circumstances, showing how societal factors can limit or enhance their chances for success.
• Discuss how Naturalist writers critique or reflect upon Social Darwinist ideology through their works.
  • Naturalist writers critique Social Darwinist ideology by depicting the harsh realities faced by individuals in society and revealing how socio-economic conditions create barriers to success. Through their narratives, they illustrate that survival is not solely based on individual merit but also influenced by factors like class, environment, and chance. By doing so, they challenge the notion that success equates to superiority, urging readers to consider systemic issues rather than attributing failure solely to personal inadequacies.
• Evaluate the impact of Social Darwinism on societal views during the time Naturalist authors were writing and its lasting implications today.
  • The impact of Social Darwinism on societal views during the era of Naturalist authors was profound; it provided a framework for justifying social hierarchies and imperialistic policies based on perceived 'fitness.' This ideology contributed to widespread discrimination and inequality while promoting a competitive mindset within society. Its lasting implications today include ongoing debates about social justice, economic disparity, and the understanding of human behavior within sociological contexts, prompting critical examination of how these outdated notions continue to influence modern perspectives on success and failure.

Related terms

Naturalism:

A literary movement that emphasizes a deterministic view of human life, suggesting that individuals are shaped by their environment, heredity, and social conditions.

Determinism: The philosophical doctrine that all events, including moral choices, are determined completely by previously existing causes, often linked with naturalist literature.

Industrialization: The process of developing industries in a country or region on a wide scale, which greatly affected social structures and class dynamics during the time of Naturalist writers.