Darwinism

Questions

1)      How does Carnegie adapt the theory of social Darwinism into his own writings on the accumulation of wealth?

     Carnegie integrates social Darwinism in his writing, but stating those who are able (independently) to acquire wealth is more proficient than those lesser beings who need help (also called the survival of the fittest), but it is up to the fittest to help the weak.

2)      How would you evaluate social Darwinism in regards to Lloyd's writings on socialism?

     Lloyd was against social Darwinism in respect that those who were poor needed help the most instead of forgetting about them.  Given opportunity they will succeed.

Interpretation

Carnegie

Wealth (1889)

     “Thus is the problem of Rich and Poor to be solved.  The laws of accumulation will be left free; the laws of distribution free.  Individualism will continue, but the millionaire will be but a trustee for the poor; intrusted for a season with a great part of the increased wealth of the community far better than it could or would have done for itself”.

     I chose this passage as a reflection of the way Carnegie thought.  He believed that the wealthy had an obligation to the poor by way of being thy brother’s keeper.  He believed that the poor, or less ambitious, were unable to do for themselves so it is up to the more fortunate to help the community excel.