The Evolution of Altruistic Behavior
- 1 September 1963
- journal article
- letter
- Published by University of Chicago Press in The American Naturalist
- Vol. 97 (896) , 354-356
- https://doi.org/10.1086/497114
Abstract
Interpopulation selection, often invoked for adaptations which classical selection cannot explain, is a mode so far unsupported by mathematical models. Genetical evolution through "benefit to the species" is in fact hardly credible. As an alternative a generalisation of the classical model is suggested which assumes that the individuals benefitted by altruistic behavior are relatives of the altruist. If r is the relationship (Wright''s coefficient) and k the ratio benefit-to-relative/ detriment-to-altruist a criterion for positive selection of a causative genotype is K >l/r. Parental care is a special case. Some previous views are mentioned.This publication has 0 references indexed in Scilit: