An American, Survival of the Fittest

An American, Survival of the Fittest In the 19th century on the diversely populated Galápagos Islands off the coast of South America, Charles Darwin studied the Galápagos finches to produce his well- known theory of natural selection. Years later, Darwin began to coin the phrase “survival of the fittest” as an accurate synonym to natural selection. Just as only the fittest survive in the process of Evolution, in human society only the fittest individuals survive and flourish, an idea called Social Darwinism. Unfortunately, whether or not a person is fit to survive and flourish in American society may be determined by certain factors that are out of a person’s control. Because of this, Americans have typically been defined by two contrasting views: The American stereotype, and the American reality. There are many texts that either support or refute these ideas. Thomas Jefferson’s “Declaration of Independence” is a document that lays out the foundation for the creation of America, and also speaks to the many factors that determined Social Darwinism in that time period. The short, witty novel, Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck illustrates two men’s dream of rising to economic prominence, and also highlights many examples of how outside factors can influence one’s destiny in America. The short story also provides the perspective of Social Darwinism in America from an immigrant’s point of view. Lastly, the “I am an American” PSA demonstrates the persistent dream that Americans have and how that applies to our present-day lives.
Many people who do not live in America have been influenced by certain documents to believe that America is a land where equal opportunity is present. However, this is a feat that is very hard to achieve with the way that mankind operates, especially in largely developed countries such as America. Ever since the Treaty of Paris in 1783, Americans have been characterized by their uncanny lust to be at the top of all aspects of