Question

This is a quotation from Russian scientist Peter Kropotkin.

[T]hose animals which acquire habits of mutual aid are undoubtedly the fittest. They have more chances to survive, and they attain, in their respective classes, the highest development and bodily organization. ...[Mutual aid] favors the development of such habits and characters as insure the maintenance and further development of the species, together with the greatest amount of welfare and enjoyment of life for the individual, with the least waste of energy.

–"Mutual Aid as a Factor in Evolution,” Peter Kropotkin

Which words or phrases support the idea that Social Darwinism is wrong? Check all that apply.

mutual aid
animals
development
enjoyment
species

Answer 1

Select: mutual aid; development; enjoyment.

- mutual aid — directly opposes Social Darwinism’s emphasis on ruthless competition by arguing cooperation promotes survival.
- development — shows cooperation leads to higher bodily/mental development, not just “survival of the fittest” through competition.
- enjoyment — emphasizes welfare and enjoyment of life (cooperative benefits), not harsh struggle.

Do not select "animals" or "species" — they are neutral/context words rather than phrases that contradict Social Darwinism.