Evolution of cooperation

The evolution of cooperation refers to how individuals in a population come to work together, even when acting selfishly might seem easier. Over time, cooperative behaviors can develop because they benefit both the individual and the group—like sharing resources or helping neighbors—which can lead to better survival and reproduction. Cooperation evolves when its advantages outweigh the costs, especially if cooperators tend to interact repeatedly or are related. This process explains why many animals, including humans, cooperate and build complex social systems, promoting mutual success across generations.