Darwinism

Definition

Darwinism refers to the theory of biological evolution developed by Charles Darwin, which posits that species evolve over time through a process called natural selection. This theory emphasizes the idea that organisms best adapted to their environments are more likely to survive and reproduce, thus passing on their advantageous traits to future generations. In literature, Darwinism often influences themes of survival, competition, and the portrayal of characters in their natural environments, aligning closely with the principles of Naturalism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Darwin's seminal work, 'On the Origin of Species', published in 1859, laid the foundation for evolutionary biology and introduced the concept of natural selection.
2. The idea of Darwinism extends beyond biology into cultural and literary contexts, where it influences themes around human nature and societal structures.
3. Darwinism challenged traditional views on creation and sparked debates regarding science and religion that continue to this day.
4. In literature, characters may be depicted as products of their environment, struggling for survival in a world influenced by natural forces, which aligns with Naturalist perspectives.
5. Critics of Darwinism have raised ethical concerns about its implications for social policy, particularly regarding eugenics and social Darwinism, which misapplied its concepts.

Review Questions

• How does Darwinism influence the themes found in Naturalist literature?
  • Darwinism heavily influences Naturalist literature by emphasizing the role of environment and heredity in shaping human behavior. Characters are often portrayed as products of their surroundings, facing challenges related to survival and adaptation. This perspective reflects the belief that human actions are determined by forces beyond their control, mirroring Darwin's ideas about species adapting to their environments through natural selection.
• Discuss the societal implications that arose from the acceptance of Darwinism in the 19th century.
  • The acceptance of Darwinism in the 19th century led to significant societal implications, including shifts in perspectives on human origins, ethics, and social order. It challenged existing religious narratives about creation and humanity's place in the world, leading to conflicts between science and religion. Furthermore, it influenced social policies, with some groups misinterpreting its concepts to justify eugenics and other controversial practices under the guise of 'survival of the fittest'.
• Evaluate the impact of Darwinism on modern understandings of human nature in both scientific and literary contexts.
  • Darwinism has profoundly impacted modern understandings of human nature by framing it within an evolutionary context in both scientific research and literary narratives. In science, it promotes a view that humans are not separate from other species but part of a continuum shaped by natural selection. In literature, this perspective is often reflected through character development and plotlines that explore humanity’s primal instincts, moral dilemmas, and responses to environmental pressures. This dual influence helps shape contemporary discussions about identity, behavior, and society's evolution.

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 a population.

Survival of the Fittest: A phrase often associated with Darwinism that describes the concept where only those organisms best suited to their environment will thrive and reproduce.

Evolutionary Biology: A branch of biology that studies the processes and patterns of biological evolution, including the origins and changes in species over time.