Herbert Spencer

Herbert Spencer was an English philosopher, biologist, anthropologist, and sociologist known for his contributions to various fields of knowledge in the Victorian era. He was one of the leading figures in the intellectual life of his time and is particularly famous for applying evolutionary theory to social and philosophical thought. He coined the term 'survival of the fittest' and was a proponent of laissez-faire economics and individualism. Spencer's work influenced a wide range of disciplines, and his ideas on social Darwinism had a significant impact on late 19th and early 20th-century thought.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. First Principles

    Cover of 'First Principles' by Herbert Spencer

    "First Principles" is a philosophical work that delves into the fundamental principles of the universe and human nature. It explores the idea of evolution and the law of organic progress, arguing that all entities, whether biological, psychological, or sociological, evolve from simple and homogeneous to complex and heterogeneous. The book also discusses the concept of 'survival of the fittest,' positing that this principle governs all transformations. It is a profound exploration of the interconnectedness of the universe and the natural laws that govern it.