Social Darwinism Created A Legitimate Theory
Do you believe that the basic concepts of Social Darwinism created a legitimate theory for explaining the social and economic rewards within our American society that certain individuals achieved during the gilded age of our past? Explain ….
Sure, I believe Social Darwinism created a legitimate theory during the gilded age, however Darwin’s theory “natural selection,” or ‘survival of the fittest”(not Darwin’s term, but same meaning) is based on a biological standpoint and should not be used on a moral guide in our society. Many wealthy people would use this term as a scapegoat for all the people that were suffering during their time. Social Darwinism certainly appealed to the rich, and many philosophers of their time. Although I may not agree
with its usage as a moral guide, it certainly has legitimate aspects to its interpretation.
Thinking back to last week’s historical journey, how might the Vanderbilt’s, the Rockefeller’s, the Carnegie’s and the Morgan’s view this theory in contrast to the common citizen worker of that day? Explain … (Recall Captains of Industry vs. Robber Barons) I believe they used this theory to their economical advantage. The common citizen worker was expendable in their eyes, thus creating harsh working environments and low pay. By interpreting Darwin’s theory into the humane society, people, specifically rich, such as the Rockefeller’s, Vanderbilt’s ect, unfortunately had no empathy for the working class citizens. Darwin’s theory provided moral justification to the harsh conditions your average blue color worker worked in.
Do you think that this theory of Social Darwinism is making a comeback in today’s American society where there is real statistical evidence of an increasing social and economic inequality throughout our nation? … Explain why that matters ….
I would agree that Social Darwinism is a common belief in a large percentage of the rich today. It allows them to not feel guilty of their economic achievements. Although I would not say it is making a comeback today, as I believe this mentality is not something that can go away, nevertheless, the current economic inequality today is a great example that it exists. This is very important to the social and governmental regulation that our democracy can hopefully adjust for the well being of every individual, and not just the rich.
Sure, I believe Social Darwinism created a legitimate theory during the gilded age, however Darwin’s theory “natural selection,” or ‘survival of the fittest”(not Darwin’s term, but same meaning) is based on a biological standpoint and should not be used on a moral guide in our society. Many wealthy people would use this term as a scapegoat for all the people that were suffering during their time. Social Darwinism certainly appealed to the rich, and many philosophers of their time. Although I may not agree
with its usage as a moral guide, it certainly has legitimate aspects to its interpretation.
Thinking back to last week’s historical journey, how might the Vanderbilt’s, the Rockefeller’s, the Carnegie’s and the Morgan’s view this theory in contrast to the common citizen worker of that day? Explain … (Recall Captains of Industry vs. Robber Barons) I believe they used this theory to their economical advantage. The common citizen worker was expendable in their eyes, thus creating harsh working environments and low pay. By interpreting Darwin’s theory into the humane society, people, specifically rich, such as the Rockefeller’s, Vanderbilt’s ect, unfortunately had no empathy for the working class citizens. Darwin’s theory provided moral justification to the harsh conditions your average blue color worker worked in.
Do you think that this theory of Social Darwinism is making a comeback in today’s American society where there is real statistical evidence of an increasing social and economic inequality throughout our nation? … Explain why that matters ….
I would agree that Social Darwinism is a common belief in a large percentage of the rich today. It allows them to not feel guilty of their economic achievements. Although I would not say it is making a comeback today, as I believe this mentality is not something that can go away, nevertheless, the current economic inequality today is a great example that it exists. This is very important to the social and governmental regulation that our democracy can hopefully adjust for the well being of every individual, and not just the rich.