Compare and contrast the views of Social Darwinism, the Gospel of Weal

Compare and contrast the views of Social Darwinism, the Gospel of Wealth, and laissez-faire. What do they all have in common and in what ways are they different? Explain why each had a popular appeal in America in the late nineteenth century.

What will be an ideal response?

ANSWER
Social Darwinists tried to use science to justify social and economic inequalities, the Gospel of Wealth used religion to do the same. These two and laissez-faire argued against government interference in the economy. These ideas appealed to some because they rationalized great concentrations of wealth and explained the maldistribution of wealth. They also tapped into the traditional values of self-reliance and the work ethic.