Final answer:
Social Darwinism is a philosophy derived from a misapplication of Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection, asserting that economic success is the result of hard work and competence, with wealth seen as a sign of biological fitness. This theory, which has been discredited, was influential in the 19th century but was criticized for not accounting for unequal opportunities in society.
Step-by-step explanation:
Social Darwinism and its Principles
The 19th century philosophy of Social Darwinism was influenced by Charles Darwin’s theory of natural selection, but it was Herbert Spencer who coined the phrase “survival of the fittest” and applied evolutionary concepts to human society. Social Darwinists believed that, like animals, humans also compete for survival and success. The ideology suggests that economic success comes to those who are the hardest working and most competent, with success being seen as a sign of biological fitness.
William Graham Sumner, a sociologist, became a notable proponent of this theory. This philosophy was used by some to justify the disparities in wealth and power, arguing that the affluent deserved their status due to superior personal traits. However, social Darwinism has been widely criticized and discredited for its lack of scientific basis and its association with colonialist and eugenic ideologies. Importantly, contrary to what social Darwinists believed, Darwin himself did not support the application of his theory to social and economic practices.
Given the information provided and the context of Social Darwinism, the correct statement related to this philosophy is that economic success comes to those who are the hardest working and most competent (1).