Is the monopoly contrary to the precepts of Darwinism?

Answer 1

Well, first of all, Darwinism doesn't really have precepts: it's a description for how things are in nature, not a set of instructions for how we should do things.

In Darwinism, too little variation has the effect of endangering the reproductive fitness of populations. Too little variation means that a population might not be able to adapt when the circumstances change. There would seem to be some similarities between our global economy and ecology. Certainly, if one values a robust and sound economy, one would prevent monopolies from gaining so much influence that their demise cripples the economy.

On the other hand, those who make the mistake of promoting Social Darwinism, committing the naturalistic fallacy, might argue that as only the strongest survive, monopolies are a natural and thus desireable consequence of the free market.

Answer 2

No, a monopoly itself is not contrary to the precepts of Darwinism. In fact, Darwinism describes the natural selection and competition that occurs in nature. However, some argue that monopolies can hinder competition and limit opportunities for adaptation and evolution, which goes against the principles of Darwinism.