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Discussion #4: The late 19th-century self-made-man.
Industrialization brought great wealth to America, but the price was quite high. The growing extremes of poverty and wealth that were being exhibited at the end of the 19th century, caused some to seek ways to make possible a just and humane society, while others sought justification for the emerging social order. The gospel of success was preached, promoting the idea that America was the land of opportunity and that hard work led to success. Social Darwinism was used to provide a scientific explanation for why some acquired great wealth while others barely survived. Rags-to-riches stories presented a picture of the opportunities that were available to all, and the success of the self-made man.
In order to prepare for this discussion forum:
•    Review and identify the relevant sections of Chapter 19, that support your discussion.
•    Review background information on the works of Horatio Alger Jr., and read one of his short stories: Ragged Dick, available on this linked site.
•    Read this selection from Andrew Carnegie's the Gospel of Wealth on this link.
•    Read this brief selection on Social Darwinism, written by Herbert Spencer, 1857, who applied Darwin's theories of evolution to society.  He also coined the phrase "survival of the fittest."
After you have completed your readings post your response to ONE of the topics in the following question:
1.    How would you respond to someone who presents you with the arguments proposed by Social Darwinists,


Links: 
https://sourcebooks.fordham.edu/mod/spencer-darwin.asp (social darwinism)