What is the meaning of the phrase chosen specimens and why does Wharton use it in her description of Newland Archer?
an inforio
resents Meland Archer's

This question is incomplete. Here's the complete question.

Read The Age of Innocence , by Edith Wharton

Wharton, taken by evolutionary theories and anthropology, used related terminology ("chosen specimens") to describe her thoughts about the 1870's New York being in contradiction with Europe, which was devastated by the war.  

Explanation:

Wharton describes Newland Archer as feeling "distinctly the superior of these chosen specimens of old New York gentility," showing that he considers himself intellectually and culturally superior to his New York elders and their rigid society.

that is true because that is something they fulfill for their work.