The Infinite Monkey Cage How selfish are we really? - Jo Brand, Matti Wilks and Steve Jones
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Feb 26, 2025 Jo Brand, a sharp-witted comedian and writer, joins psychologist Matti Wilks, who specializes in morality, to explore the depths of altruism. They tackle fascinating questions like why humans choose to help others and the biological roots of altruism. The conversation dives into how personal relationships dictate generosity, and surprising insights reveal how children perceive kindness. With humor and expert analysis, the duo discusses the intricate balance between self-interest and altruism, alongside a look at gender influences in charitable behavior.
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Defining Altruism
- Altruism is defined as reducing your own fitness to increase another's.
- This seems counterintuitive to evolution, which prioritizes individual fitness.
Scott's Expedition
- Scott's expedition refused to kill their horses for food, prioritizing the animals' lives.
- This act of altruism contributed to their demise, highlighting the potential cost of such behavior.
Early Human Collaboration
- Early humans, like Neanderthals, exhibited collaboration within family groups for survival.
- This kin selection is a form of collaboration driven by genetic advantage.