Problem
Misuse of evolutionary theories
Other Names:
Fictitious tenets of evolutionMisleading presentations of the theory of evolution
Nature:
The theory of natural selection and the survival of the fittest can be used to justify existing inequalities and injustices and may give weight to racism, elitism, domination and exploitation. Darwin's theory only concerned biological evolution; social Darwinism developed afterwards and was short-lived – but the heritage of these two aspects of the theory is paralleled in modern genetic arguments explaining inequalities and the naturally superior nature of some races (such as greater development and achievement in one society or social group as opposed to another).
Broader Problems:
MaterialismAbuse of sciencePoliticization of scholarshipUnethical practice of the life sciences Narrower Problems:
Social evolutionism Aggravates:
ElitismScientific racismDisputed educational programmesDiscriminatory biological theoriesBiased and inaccurate biology textbooks References:
Rusch, Wilbert H: The Argument: creationism vs evolutionismStrahler, Arthur N: Science and Earth History: the evolution-creation controversyWalker, K R: The Evolution-Creation Controversy Perspectives on Religion, Philosophy, Science and Education: a handbookZetterberg, J Peter: Evolution Versus Creationism: the public education controversyJohnson, Phillip: Darwin on TrialPapal Encyclical: Humani Generis: Concerning some false opinions threatening to undermine the foundations of catholic doctrine Subject(s):
Biosciences → Evolution and speciesCommunication → Censorship
Science → Theoretical
Societal Problems → Maltreatment
Related UN Sustainable Development Goals:
Problem Type:
F: Fuzzy exceptional problems Date of last update
28.10.2020 – 17:09 CET