3. Social Darwinism

Their misunderstanding

Darwin believed species were constantly adapting to changing environments, not that there were superior societies, cultures or races.

Herbert spencer - a social scientist

Described the theory of evolution as "survival of the fittest". Applied this theory to the human race and called it social Darwinism. Believed that the humans were at different stages of evolution.

Social Darwinists applied the theory in their own societies

Physically disabled, less intelligent were at a lower stage of development. Believed the working class were less able than upper class people. Believed successful business man triumphed over poor worker because of difference in ability not opportunity.

Charles darwins theory of evolution

That in the animal world species were continually evolving. Proposed that the process occured because of the ability of better adapted species to flourish at the expense of less adapted ones.

Social Darwinist beliefs

There was a hierarchy of races, that Europeans were most advanced as they had developed better technology, conquered more parts of the world.

How they used Social Darwinism

To justify colonial expansion, believing the Europeans had the right to take over and force others to work for them. Saw it as a process of survival of the fittest