Which social theory influenced the perceptions of poverty during the time of Jacob Riis?

The correct answer is Social Darwinism because this social theory emerged in the late 19th century and was influential in shaping societal views about poverty and social structures. Social Darwinism applied the concept of "survival of the fittest" from Charles Darwin's theories of natural selection to human societies. Proponents believed that social and economic inequalities were a natural part of human development, suggesting that those who were successful were inherently superior, while the impoverished were seen as weaker or less capable.

During the time of Jacob Riis, a journalist and social reformer focused on exposing the conditions of the urban poor in New York City, Social Darwinism contributed to a perception that poverty was a result of individual failure rather than systemic issues or societal neglect. This perspective often led to a lack of compassion for those in poverty, as many believed that aid would interfere with the natural order of societal evolution.

As Riis documented the harsh realities of life for the poor in his book "How the Other Half Lives," he challenged the beliefs associated with Social Darwinism. By revealing the conditions faced by the urban poor, he aimed to elicit empathy and action, advocating for reforms that would address the systemic causes of poverty rather than accepting it as a natural consequence of human existence