Which scientist gave the initial idea of survival of the fittest :

Options

A. Wallace
B. Spencer
C. Darwin
D. Mendel

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks for the scientist who initially proposed the idea of "survival of the fittest."

2. **Analyzing the Options**: The options given are Welles, Spencer, Darwin, and Mendel. We need to determine which of these scientists is associated with the concept of "survival of the fittest."

3. **Defining "Survival of the Fittest"**: This term refers to the idea that organisms that adapt to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce. It emphasizes the role of adaptation in the survival of species.

4. **Identifying the Scientist**:
- Charles Darwin is well-known for his theory of evolution and natural selection, which discusses how species evolve over time.
- Herbert Spencer is credited with coining the phrase "survival of the fittest" and applied it to social and economic contexts.
- Gregor Mendel is known for his work in genetics, particularly the laws of inheritance, but he did not contribute to the concept of survival of the fittest.
- Welles does not have a significant association with this concept.

5. **Conclusion**: The term "survival of the fittest" was first proposed by Herbert Spencer, making him the correct answer to the question.

6. **Final Answer**: The scientist who gave the initial idea of "survival of the fittest" is Herbert Spencer.

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