Which ideology often justified imperialism during the 19th century?

Social Darwinism is the ideology that often justified imperialism during the 19th century. This belief system applied the concept of natural selection, proposed by Charles Darwin, to human societies and politics. Proponents of Social Darwinism argued that certain races or nations were superior to others and that it was natural for these stronger groups to dominate weaker ones. This ideology provided a moral and scientific rationale for European powers to expand their empires, often at the expense of colonized peoples who were viewed as 'less evolved' or 'weaker.'

It played a significant role in shaping public opinion and governmental policies regarding imperialism. By asserting the idea that imperialism was a means of civilizing and uplifting supposedly "inferior" societies, imperialists could frame their expansionist policies as beneficial and necessary. The influence of Social Darwinism was evident in various imperialistic actions and policies, contributing to a broader cultural justification for the expansion and maintenance of empires during this era.