KM
Answered
Explain how social Darwinism legitimized the economic development of the late 19th century and how it presented itself in the self-help literature of the time.
On Jun 08, 2024
Social Darwinism was a belief system that emerged in the late 19th century, which applied Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection to human society. It suggested that the most successful individuals and societies were those that were the fittest and most adapted to their environment, and that those who were less successful were simply not fit enough to survive. This idea was used to justify the economic development of the time, as it suggested that the wealthy and successful individuals and businesses were simply the most fit and deserving of their success, while those who were struggling were seen as less fit and therefore less deserving.
This belief system was often reflected in the self-help literature of the time, which promoted the idea that individuals could improve their own lives through hard work, determination, and self-reliance. This literature often emphasized the idea of "survival of the fittest" and encouraged individuals to strive for success and wealth, while also suggesting that those who were not successful were simply not working hard enough or were not fit enough to succeed. This served to legitimize the economic development of the late 19th century by promoting the idea that success was a result of individual effort and ability, rather than external factors such as exploitation or inequality.
Overall, social Darwinism legitimized the economic development of the late 19th century by promoting the idea that success and wealth were a result of natural selection and individual effort, and this belief was often reflected in the self-help literature of the time, which encouraged individuals to strive for success and self-improvement.
KM
Answered
Discuss the forces in American society between 1820 and 1850 that contributed to the emergence of a women's rights movement. What did women's rights advocates seek? Where did they find support? Who opposed them and why?
On Jun 06, 2024
The forces in American society between 1820 and 1850 that contributed to the emergence of a women's rights movement were primarily rooted in the social and political changes of the time. The Second Great Awakening, a religious revival movement, emphasized the idea of individual moral agency and equality before God, which inspired many women to seek greater rights and opportunities. Additionally, the abolitionist movement, which gained momentum during this period, highlighted the parallels between the oppression of enslaved people and the limitations placed on women's rights.
Women's rights advocates sought a variety of reforms, including the right to own property, access to education and employment opportunities, and the right to participate in political and social spheres. They also sought to challenge traditional gender roles and expectations, advocating for greater autonomy and agency for women in all aspects of their lives.
Women's rights advocates found support from a diverse range of individuals and groups, including other social reform movements such as abolitionism and temperance, as well as sympathetic male allies. They also found support within certain religious communities that emphasized the equality of all individuals before God.
However, women's rights advocates faced significant opposition from traditionalists who believed in the preservation of gender roles and the patriarchal structure of society. Many men and women opposed the women's rights movement, fearing that it would disrupt the social order and undermine traditional family values. Additionally, some religious leaders and institutions opposed the movement, citing biblical justifications for the subordination of women.
Overall, the emergence of the women's rights movement in the early to mid-19th century was a response to the changing social and political landscape of the time, as well as a reflection of the growing desire for greater equality and autonomy among women in American society.