Darwinism

Definition

Darwinism refers to the theory of biological evolution developed by Charles Darwin, primarily focusing on natural selection as the mechanism by which species adapt and evolve over time. It connects closely with ideas of determinism, suggesting that human behavior and social structures are influenced by evolutionary forces, and this perspective significantly shaped naturalism in literature, emphasizing a realistic representation of life driven by environmental and hereditary factors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Darwinism emphasizes the role of chance and environmental factors in the evolutionary process, suggesting that human beings are not exempt from these influences.
2. In literature, Darwinism has been used to explain characters' motivations and behaviors as products of their environments and genetic backgrounds.
3. The implications of Darwinism challenge traditional views on free will, raising questions about personal agency in the context of inherited traits and societal conditions.
4. Darwin's theory sparked considerable debate and controversy during his time, influencing not just biology but also philosophy, sociology, and literature.
5. Writers influenced by Darwinism often depict characters as trapped by their circumstances, highlighting themes of struggle and survival in a deterministic universe.

Review Questions

• How does Darwinism influence the portrayal of characters in naturalist literature?
  • Darwinism impacts character portrayal in naturalist literature by emphasizing how individuals are shaped by their environments and genetic inheritances. Authors use this lens to depict characters whose behaviors and fates are largely determined by external forces, such as social conditions or biological traits. This approach creates a sense of realism that reflects the complexities of life and the struggles individuals face as they navigate their predetermined paths.
• Discuss the relationship between Darwinism and determinism in the context of human behavior as depicted in literature.
  • The relationship between Darwinism and determinism in literature highlights the idea that human behavior is not solely a matter of free will but is significantly influenced by evolutionary processes. Writers often portray characters who are unable to escape their biological and environmental constraints, illustrating how their choices are shaped by inherent traits and societal pressures. This dynamic raises important questions about accountability and morality within a deterministic framework.
• Evaluate the impact of Darwinism on cultural attitudes towards science and religion during the late 19th century.
  • Darwinism had a profound impact on cultural attitudes towards science and religion in the late 19th century, creating tension between scientific explanations of human existence and traditional religious beliefs. As Darwin's theories challenged creationist views, debates emerged about the validity of religious narratives versus scientific findings. This clash led to a broader reevaluation of humanity's place in the universe, prompting discussions around morality, ethics, and the implications of viewing life through an evolutionary lens.

Related terms

Natural Selection: The process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring, leading to evolutionary changes in species over generations.

Survival of the Fittest: A phrase often associated with Darwinism that describes the concept that only those individuals or species best suited to their environment will survive and reproduce.

Determinism:

The philosophical belief that all events, including human actions, are determined by previously existing causes, often linked to scientific principles like evolution.