Just saw this on my feed. I’m not sure if you’ve already read this, but the book Does Altruism Exist? by David Sloan Wilson is about this exact premise: altruistic/pro-social behaviours and the conditions under which it comprises a successful evolutionary strategy, both for individuals and groups. It’s written by a biologist, so I think you might find some use out of it!
Personally, I like the book and I think EAs would find it interesting. Effective Altruism has a ton of research examining the Effective part, but far less on the Altruism part. The book rigorously defines definitions such as altruism, and examines the contexts under which altruistic individuals and groups can thrive, as well as the risks that could undermine such behaviours.
Hi!
Just saw this on my feed. I’m not sure if you’ve already read this, but the book Does Altruism Exist? by David Sloan Wilson is about this exact premise: altruistic/pro-social behaviours and the conditions under which it comprises a successful evolutionary strategy, both for individuals and groups. It’s written by a biologist, so I think you might find some use out of it!
Personally, I like the book and I think EAs would find it interesting. Effective Altruism has a ton of research examining the Effective part, but far less on the Altruism part. The book rigorously defines definitions such as altruism, and examines the contexts under which altruistic individuals and groups can thrive, as well as the risks that could undermine such behaviours.