“The Human Drift”

• • What is the central argument of Jack London's The Human Drift?

  The central argument is that the history of civilization is primarily driven by humans wandering the earth in search of food, driven by the instinct for survival.
• • How does Jack London contrast his argument with romantic and transcendentalist views of civilization?

  London argues that civilization is not a result of human creativity, romance, or adventure, but rather a consequence of natural instincts and the drive for sustenance.
• • What evidence does London use to support his argument about human evolution in The Human Drift?

  London refers to the evolution of early humans, noting traits like upright walking and opposable thumbs, suggesting that humanity’s development was driven by survival instincts.
• • How does Jack London's view in The Human Drift align with the naturalist perspective?

  London’s view aligns with the naturalist perspective by emphasizing that civilization arose from natural instincts and survival needs, rather than human imagination or social constructs.
• • What is the significance of London’s use of the term “early drifts” in The Human Drift?

  "Early drifts" refers to the movement of early humans in search of food, supporting the idea that survival instincts were the primary motivation for human development and civilization.
• • How does Jack London incorporate Darwin's ideas into The Human Drift?

  London incorporates Darwin’s ideas by referencing human evolution, such as the development of upright walking and opposable thumbs, which were foundational concepts in On the Origin of Species.
• • What is the difference between the romanticized view of civilization and London’s view in The Human Drift?

  The romanticized view sees civilization as a product of human creativity and adventure, while London argues it is a natural outcome of humanity's need for survival.