Social darwinism as a form of Black empowerment?
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In the essay Noble Drew Ali, Curtis explores how Marcus Garvey promoted a form of black nationalism and empowerment which used social darwinism as a key principle. Historically social darwinism was a racist ideology which was invented to justify imperialism and enslavement. Using this belief Garvey promoted an ideal that Black people should create a society separate from white people and focus on “advancement” internally. Garvey maintained that this was a far better alternative than attempting to assimilate into white society and continue to be oppressed. Instead Garvey suggested how a nationalist, independent society established through groups like the “Universal Negro Improvement Association” would be of a benefit to the Black community. Ultimately, I did not expect Garvey to promote social darwinism as an ideology to encourage Black liberation given the historical use of the ideology to justify imperialism and colonialism.