Social Darwinism

Definition

Social Darwinism is a sociopolitical theory that emerged in the late 19th century, which applies Charles Darwin's concepts of natural selection and survival of the fittest to human societies. It often justified imperialism, colonialism, and economic inequalities by arguing that certain races or social classes were inherently superior and better adapted to thrive in society. This idea influenced various aspects of Latin American thought and governance, particularly through its connection to positivism, which emphasized progress and order.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social Darwinism gained popularity during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the context of industrialization and imperial expansion.
2. In Latin America, Social Darwinism was used to rationalize colonial practices and the social hierarchies that emerged during the post-colonial period.
3. Prominent thinkers like Herbert Spencer promoted Social Darwinism, arguing that societal progress was linked to competition among races and classes.
4. The application of Social Darwinist ideas contributed to discriminatory policies and practices, including eugenics movements that sought to control reproduction among certain populations.
5. Critics of Social Darwinism pointed out its moral implications and the misuse of scientific concepts to justify oppression and inequality.

Review Questions

• How did Social Darwinism influence political thought in Latin America during the late 19th century?
  • Social Darwinism influenced political thought in Latin America by providing a framework that justified imperialist policies and social hierarchies. Many leaders adopted these ideas to rationalize their governance strategies, arguing that certain races were more fit for leadership and development. This led to discriminatory practices against indigenous populations and marginalized groups, framing them as 'less evolved' in the context of societal progress.
• Discuss the connection between Positivism and Social Darwinism in shaping Latin American intellectual movements.
  • Positivism and Social Darwinism are interconnected as both emphasize progress, order, and scientific reasoning. Positivists believed that societies could be improved through empirical science and rational governance, while Social Darwinists applied these principles to justify social inequalities based on race and class. Together, they shaped an intellectual environment in Latin America that endorsed social hierarchies and encouraged policies aimed at modernization but often at the expense of marginalized communities.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of Social Darwinism on Latin American societies and their development into the 20th century.
  • The long-term impacts of Social Darwinism on Latin American societies included entrenched social inequalities and legitimized discrimination against indigenous peoples and mixed-race populations. These ideas influenced state policies regarding citizenship, education, and public health, promoting notions of racial superiority that persisted well into the 20th century. The legacy of Social Darwinism also affected socio-political movements as various groups challenged these established hierarchies, leading to struggles for civil rights and social justice that continue to resonate in contemporary debates about equality and representation.

Related terms

Positivism:

A philosophical theory advocating that knowledge is primarily based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning, often associated with Auguste Comte.

Eugenics: A movement aimed at improving the genetic quality of a population through selective breeding, which was influenced by Social Darwinist ideas.

Imperialism:

A policy or ideology where a country extends its power and influence over other nations or territories, often justified by beliefs in racial superiority.