The Adaptation of Altruism

The adaptation of altruism refers to how behaviors that benefit others, sometimes at a personal cost, have evolved because they increase the chances of survival and reproduction for both individuals and their kin or social groups. In evolutionary terms, such behaviors can enhance the overall success of shared genes, either through helping relatives (kin selection) or building cooperative relationships that improve survival outcomes (reciprocal altruism). This adaptation promotes social cohesion and supports the survival of the species by fostering cooperation and mutual aid, even when it involves personal sacrifices.