Hofstadter, Richard. Social Darwinism in American Thought, University of Pennsylvania Press: Philadelphia, 1944.

Book Reviewed by: Mary Kneefel

Richard Hofstadter filled each page of his book with rich material in Social Darwinism in American Thought. Any reader can appreciate a cohesive writing style. His introduction provided necessary background needed for the following chapters. At times, it was difficult differentiating between the various biologists, sociologists, philosophers, and or economists. However, given the complexity of this topic, it only seems necessary to include any opposing arguments of the times.

Without looking at the titles of the chapters, it was tough to identity, which figures he would further elaborate on. During this time in his writing, it is not evident how the author feels about the subject; he seems more interested on presenting the topic than his opinion.

The first chapter went into greater detail about how Darwin’s principles have affected the United States from the slightly after the Civil War and until later in the twentieth century. Hofstadter integrated the scientific, religious and political views well, throughout this section. The book did not seem to truly begin until the second chapter, which gave Herbert Spencer’s account.

The “Vogue of Spencer” offered a fair amount of history on his life prior his studies, but dove into his intellectual life soon after.

Hofstadter provided clear examples of how Spencer added his sociologist twist the existing principles. For example, there was a correlation between survival of the fittest, and both New York City and the railroad industries. He describes the ruthless individuals seeking fame in a new city, and the relentless power of the major railroad owners, that seem to characterize society. More important he was able to clearly distinguish the differences and similarities between Spencer and economist William Sumner.

I was hesitant upon reading this book, because I had anticipated a dull read. Yet, it greatly exceeded my expectations. The views held by these two individuals could definitely been seen in shaping the American society. He showed how Spencer’s optimistic viewpoint of humanity, differed from Sumner’s pessimistic approach. This among many other facts established the various ways Americans struggle to understand society as well as themselves. Hofstadter illustrated how lost people seem, so easily influenced. I think that speaks volumes on how impressionable people are, with new ideas.

By chapter three, on Lewis Ward, the critic, the author changed approaches to social Darwinism. He provided good information on his family’s background and how that contributed to his views. Since he was raised in a lower-class home, he resented the fact that many people believed; he would remain in the lower class despite his greatest efforts. It seemed like the perfect timing to establish the contrasting stance.

He presented a lot of compelling arguments, and expressed complicated topics in an easy fashion. It seems strange now that many people considered us to strictly follow rules of nature, and not have the capacity to act upon free will. Also it was interesting to that included some facts about their lives, after their major studies were over, and how the public perceived them later in life. For example, Ward was not taken seriously because his ideas were merely ahead of his time.

After introducing and giving Ward’s account, the following chapter gave a little preview of what else was yet to come. In the midst of all the sociological implications, he gives some ethics behind it as well. In this section, it was fascinating to go back to the source, Darwin himself. Random facts, Hofstadter would referred too, like how people who would bear children into poverty, should no marry, gave insight into other facets of his beliefs, and ideals.

Another point that the author alludes to is that even though this all derived from biology and science, does not mean Darwin was the one who focused on society. He is clear to reference the book Origin of Species, his first book published in 1860, focusing on animals in the Galapagos Islands. The greater question of Social Darwinism is contributed by other analysis and mere expansion on Darwinism’s observation of animal life. Hofstadter points out flaws in previous philosophy.

He is diligent in finding various examples these have been implied too, throughout the course of his book. For example, he uses the Industrial Revolution, tariffs, and the domination of the conservative party. In addition, he presents a new issue in the second half of the book.

It appears the first half, focused more on the idea of classes battling each other. However, in the second he integrates race as well. Without its inclusion it seemed he would have missed a major part of emphasis during this time, before the civil rights movement. Prior to this he alludes to controversy in men’s property and respect towards women, were overlooked during Spencer and Sumner’s era.

Hofstadter is a unique author, in that he wrote a book and remained unbiased throughout its course. Most writers seemed compelled to add their own interpretation into each section, but because of his neutral stance it really allowed the reader to focus on the content. He presented facts after facts, and only seemed to present his opinion in the conclusion. He speaks in agreement with Ward’s views that animals and humans are incomparable. A well-thought analogy says it best. That animals relay on its surrounding such as wind, water, and other animals, yet mankind has the ability remove weeds, dig a hole, and time. Humans can use logic and reasoning to take matters into their own hands.

He collects an unbiased opinion, and lets the reader decipher for himself or herself. This book seems to be a sociology staple in literature. It challenges readers to analyze the various stages in American history and sociology. Social Darwinism in American Thought raising a series of questions important for citizens today.