Describe Spencer’s social Darwinism and explain why it was so popular in the United States.
Spencer’s Social Darwinism refers to the notion of Herbert Spencer that evolutionary principles apply to societies as well as individuals. Spencer believed that the concept of “survival of the fittest” can also be applied to the human society.
Spencer was a follower of Lamarck, before he came across the concepts of Charles Darwin. He applied the notions of evolution to the human mind and human society. The term “survival of the fittest” was actually coined by Spencer in 1852, and it was later adopted by Darwin. Spencer varied from Darwin in their views on evolution. He thought that evolution is progress, that is, evolution does not take place without a purpose. On the other hand, Darwin believed no such thing.
Spencer’s Social Darwinism says that the human beings in a human society struggle for existence just like the animals struggle in their natural environment. Spencer believed that if the principles of evolution are allowed to operate freely, all living organisms will approximate perfection including us, the human beings.
Spencer’s Social Darwinism was very popular in the United States because he believed that the best policy for a government to follow was “laissez-faire” policy that will provide free competition among its citizens. He also believed that a government, which formulates programs to help the poor and weak, interferes with the evolutionary principles and inhibits the society to move towards perfection.
The above-mentioned ideas of Herbert Spencer were compatible with the United States’ ideas of capitalism and individualism. Likewise, his Social Darwinism theory was appreciated and supported by US industrialists. His ideas were even taught in most universities and his books sold hundreds of thousands of copies.
Interestingly, Spencer opposed only government-funded programs of helping the weak and the poor. He supported private philanthropy and charity because he believed it strengthened the character of the donors.