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The Origins of Virtue: Human Instincts and the Evolution of Cooperation
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The Origins of Virtue: Human Instincts and the Evolution of Cooperation Paperback - 1998 - 1st Edition

by Matt Ridley


Summary

If, as Darwin suggests, evolution relentlessly encourages the survival of the fittest, why are humans compelled to live in cooperative, complex societies? In this fascinating examination of the roots of human trust and virtue, a zoologist and former American editor of the Economist reveals the results of recent studies that suggest that self-interest and mutual aid are not at all incompatible. In fact, he points out, our cooperative instincts may have evolved as part of mankind?s natural selfish behavior--by exchanging favors we can benefit ourselves as well as others. Brilliantly orchestrating the newest findings of geneticists, psychologists, and anthropologists, The Origins of Virtue re-examines the everyday assumptions upon which we base our actions towards others, whether in our roles as parents, siblings, or trade partners. With the wit and brilliance of The Red Queen, his acclaimed study of human and animal sexuality, Matt Ridley shows us how breakthroughs in computer programming, microbiology, and economics have given us a new perspective on how and why we relate to each other.

From the publisher

Matt Ridley has worked as a science editor, Washington correspondent, and American editor for the Economist. A research fellow of the Institute for Economic Affairs and a Trustee of the International Centre for Life, he lives in Northumberland, England.

First line

'The ants and termites,' wrote Prince Kropotkin, 'have renounced the "Hobbesian war", and they are the better for it.'

Details

  • Title The Origins of Virtue: Human Instincts and the Evolution of Cooperation
  • Author Matt Ridley
  • Binding Paperback
  • Edition number 1st
  • Edition 1
  • Pages 304
  • Volumes 1
  • Language ENG
  • Publisher Penguin Books, E Rutherford, New Jersey, U.S.A.
  • Date April 1, 1998
  • ISBN 9780140264456 / 0140264450
  • Weight 0.45 lbs (0.20 kg)
  • Dimensions 7.76 x 5.09 x 0.61 in (19.71 x 12.93 x 1.55 cm)
  • Ages 18 to UP years
  • Grade levels 13 - UP
  • Library of Congress subjects Evolution (Biology), Altruism
  • Library of Congress Catalog Number 96044907
  • Dewey Decimal Code 303.5

About the author

Matt Ridley has worked as a science editor, Washington correspondent, and American editor for the Economist. A research fellow of the Institute for Economic Affairs and a Trustee of the International Centre for Life, he lives in Northumberland, England.
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