Final answer:
Neo-Darwinism integrates Darwin's natural selection and Mendelian genetics, providing a mechanism for how inherited traits affect an organism's survival and reproductive success. It is distinct from social Darwinism, which misapplies evolutionary concepts to justify societal hierarchies and is rejected by the scientific community.
Step-by-step explanation:
Neo-Darwinism incorporates the theory of natural selection developed by Charles Darwin with a modern understanding of genetics. This synthesis between Darwinian evolution and Mendelian genetics occurred during the early 20th century, leading to a clearer understanding of how traits are inherited and the role they play in survival and reproduction. Thus, Neo-Darwinism emphasizes that evolution is driven by variation in inherited traits, natural selection, and genetic inheritance.
It's important not to confuse Neo-Darwinism with social Darwinism, which is a distorted application of Darwin's ideas to justify societal inequalities and even atrocities like eugenics. Social Darwinism propagates the belief that human society progresses through the struggle for survival, where certain individuals or groups, considered superior, naturally succeed over others. This notion, while historically influential, is considered a misinterpretation of Darwinian theory and does not align with the scientific principles of evolution by natural selection.