Actually, we must be careful here. Many recent studies have shown an
evolutionary basis for altruism. Mathematical studies indicate that altruistic
groups are more likely to survive, and altruistic members of a group will
do better than the rest. Also, there are cases of "altruism" among animals.
If you think about it, this makes sense. On a group level, it is logical
that a group in which everyone helps eachother out will do better than
a group in which everyone is fighting only for themselves. On an
individual level, an altruistic individual is more likely to have his
actions returned by kindness, whereas a belligerent individual is more
likely to be attacked at the first opportunity.
Jonathan Katz
frisch1@mit.edu
410 Memorial Drive
Room 233F
Cambridge, MA 02139