Abstract
The concept of altruism is defined and distinguished from other social interactions. Contrasting theories on the evolution and maintenance of altruism in natural populations are discussed. Many biologists argue against group selection and altruism espoused by Wynne-Edwards. Many behaviors that seem to be altruistic can be interpreted more parsimoniously by natural selection principles. Kin selection, kin-group selection, and reciprocal altruism are principles advanced to explain behaviors thought to be altruistic. Humans, chimpanzees, and orangutans have self-identity, and this capacity may allow organisms to transcend natural selection models of altruism.
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Miley, W.M. Self-Awareness And Altruism. Psychol Rec 30, 3–8 (1980). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03394649
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03394649