Herbert Spencer used the concept of social Darwinism to defend

the concepts of philanthropy and generous giving.

the rise of poverty and the mortality rates of less fortunate people.

the evolution of the human species and the will to survive.

the need for immigration and equality between the classes.

Spencer developed an all-embracing conception of evolution as the progressive development of the physical world, biological organisms, the human mind, and human culture and societies. As a polymath, he contributed to a wide range of subjects, including ethics, religion, anthropology, economics, political theory, philosophy, literature, astronomy, biology, sociology, and psychology. During his lifetime he achieved tremendous authority, mainly in English-speaking academia.