English
“Survival of the Fittest” is a phrase coined by Herbert Spencer and Darwin in 1859. It is the most widely accepted theory of “Evolution of species”. This is a theory of natural selection suggests that nature has its own way of selecting the most fit species. Biologically, every reproduction process produces many variants, but not all survive. Variations are considered to be an inheritable aspect and a significant population believes that fitness is affected by the ability to replicate and the produce variations (Northcut, 2004). Only the ones, who can sustain the current environmental challenges and competition, explore new means of getting food, sustain and the rest perish.
It is believed that animals that adapt to the new ways of finding food will be able to live longer and have more children than others who are not as good. Also, the genes will be passed onto children, giving them the same advantages. There are many examples in nature which displays of survival of the fittest. For example, the crocodile which survived even at the time of the dinosaurs are still alive for the same reason.
The theory is not only applicable to biologists but is also true socially. This phrase actually invoked ideas where people believed that only violent, most aggressive and the strongest people are best fit for the survival. However, ‘fittest’ doesn’t always mean physically stronger or the most aggressive (Monaghan & Just, 2000). It means people with attributes like co-operation, patience, perseverance, optimistic thrive. For example people who were most influential in the world like Gandhi, Einstein, Darwin and Newton still survive not physically but with their ideologies and principle.
The theory of Darwin may or may not be accepted well in the society because everyone is mortal and all living this die one day. But the phrase gives an idea to live life to the fullest, and not just wait for dying. Mobb Deep’s most famous track from “Infamous” describes the challenges of the criminal life on the street and his strong mindset and desire to survive. It is this positive attitude that does not let down even when situations are unfavorable.
This theory is seen to be very useful when the businesses see economic turmoil. During the recession only the best businesses who are capable of retaining their market value survive while the weaker ones either get acquired or are closed. Companies who can be innovative and game changers can survive. In the technology world also this theory is of much significance. The innovative technologies of today are of relevance only when they are agile and sustainable.
It is difficult to argue if Darwin’s theory is applicable for biologists or not, but in real life it is of significance. There is a competitive environment everywhere – in the classroom, at play, at work, and even at home. The ones who succeed are the ones who lead, dare to be ahead, be innovative and sustain the changing conditions. One lesson that Darwin’s theory teaches is that we should always try to leave our comfort zone and do something new and different.
References
Meinz, David L. Survival Of The Fittest. 1st ed. [Virginia Beach, VA]: Gilbert Press, 2005. Print.
Northcut, Kathryn M. The Making Of Knowledge In Science. 1st ed. 2004. Print.
Monaghan, Karon. Monaghan On Equality Law. 1st ed. Print.
Depp, Mobb. The Infamous. 2014. Web. 5 Jul. 2014.
