Social Darwinism, a socio-political theory that emerged in the late 19th century, applied the concept of natural selection to human societies and suggested that certain groups of people were more "fit" for survival and success than others. This ideology influenced various aspects of society, including immigration policies, attitudes toward Indigenous peoples, and international relations in nations such as Australia and Canada.
Australia
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Immigration Policies: Social Darwinism contributed significantly to the development of the "White Australia" policy. This policy restricted non-European immigration, driven by the belief that the Anglo-Saxon race was superior. As a result, the Australian government implemented measures to ensure that immigrants were primarily of British or European descent. This exclusionary policy was justified through a lens of racial hierarchy, where the dominance of the "white" race was seen as a natural outcome of social evolution.
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Indigenous Peoples: The application of Social Darwinism led to policies that marginalized Indigenous Australians. They were often portrayed as "primitive" and "backward," and there was a pervasive belief that their cultures were inferior and would ultimately die out. These beliefs justified land dispossession, the removal of Indigenous children (the Stolen Generations), and policies aimed at assimilation into European ways of life.
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National Identity: Social Darwinism influenced the conception of national identity in Australia, leading to a dominant cultural narrative that embraced notions of racial superiority and exclusivity. This ideology reinforced a sense of belonging based on race rather than inclusivity and multiculturalism.
Canada
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Indigenous Relations: In Canada, Social Darwinism similarly justified the treatment of Indigenous peoples. Policies like the Indian Act and the establishment of residential schools were based on the belief that Indigenous cultures were inferior and needed to be "civilized." This resulted in significant cultural disruption, loss of language, and social fragmentation within Indigenous communities.
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Immigration Policies: While Canada adopted a more multicultural immigration strategy later in its history, Social Darwinism played a role in its earlier immigration policies. The preference for British and European settlers was often framed in terms of racial fitness, while immigrants from Asia and other regions faced stricter barriers and discrimination. The Chinese Head Tax and the exclusion of Sikh and other South Asian immigrants reflected these attitudes.
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Nationalism and Identity: Canadian nationalism was influenced by both British imperial notions and Social Darwinist ideas, which shaped concepts of loyalty and citizenship. The belief in racial superiority often manifested in attitudes towards national unity, with a preference for settlers and citizens who fit a specific demographic mold.
Conclusion
In summary, the application of Social Darwinism in Australia and Canada had profound social and political implications, shaping attitudes towards race, immigration, and Indigenous peoples. It contributed to policies that promoted exclusion and assimilation, rooted in a belief in racial hierarchy. These legacies have had lasting effects and continue to influence discussions of racial identity, history, and reconciliation in both nations today.