Is Darwinism inconsistent with theism

Answer 1

No. Both Evolution by Natural Selection and Social Darwinism (which are two completely different things) both pose no challenge to Theism. Evolution by Natural Selection only poses a challenge to Biblical Literalism; if The Bible is allegorical or metaphoric in some portions, the problem evaporates.

Evolution by Natural Selection is the scientific theory that random genetic mutations will produce slightly different creatures that survive or die based on the nonrandom selection process of the natural environment. Evolution does not answer, nor does it try to, the question of where that life came from. Therefore, the act of abiogenesis, e.g. the creation of life, can easily serve as a position for God/gods to intervene. Theists can also argue that God/gods set the natural conditions that served as the selectors. The reason that Evolution by Natural Selection poses a problem for Biblical Literalism is that evolution takes millions of years to achieve dramatic changes and the Bible argues that the Earth is less than 10,000 years old if taken literally. (While Evolution requires an Old Earth, the evidence for such an Earth comes extrinsic to evolution.)

Social Darwinism asserts dominance within humanity based on arbitrary tribal units (countries) as opposed to individual characteristics. Genetics are not being selected for or against. The competition between the races is artificially rigged against the less technologically advanced than based on environmental factors. The fight is over societal domination as opposed to adaptations to match the environment. Culture and religion are personal choices, not contingent on genetics or instincts. The Theist could simply argue that God/gods created the perfect culture which has triumphed over adversity because of divinely inspired traits.

Answer 2

Yes. The way in which Darwinism is generally taught and understood, which is based on a paradigm of mere natural causes, is inconsistent with theism. Though one can claim to believe in Divinely-guided evolution (and some do), this is often not the case. This may then be viewed as an implicit excuse for hedonism, as few people want "bothersome" rules, or limitations to their personal pleasure. Lack of self-discipline has led to epidemic obesity, drunkenness, divorce rates, violence etc., and a general ennui of "if it's all without ultimate meaning, why bother?"
Many think that science, and specifically Evolution, have proved that there is no God. They don't comprehend that even if Evolution was an unquestionable fact, it should not automatically follow that God isn't there. They also seem unaware that there are some highly-qualified scientists who do not believe in Evolution.

See also:

Why do theists dislike Darwinism?

Is there evidence against Evolution

God's wisdom seen in His creations

Can you show that God exists