You may be familiar with the evolutionary theory of “survival of the fittest.” It’s the idea that healthy individuals traditionally survived to pass on their genes by being very aggressive and beating out the competition within their species.
But scientists Brian Hare and Vanessa Woods, who are also the authors of the new book Survival of the Friendliest: Understanding Our Origins and Rediscovering Our Common Humanity, have proposed an alternative explanation.
Their research indicates that “friendliness” between individuals and species determines their success. It’s a fascinating theory, and it has some important implications for how we think of the future of our communities.
Let’s explore a breakdown of their research and find out why friendliness is a critical factor in evolutionary “success.”
Debunking “Survival of the Fittest”
Is it merely the physically strongest and most threatening species that can survive and multiply in a way that weaker species can’t? Not necessarily! In fact, science and history indicate that species that were able to cooperate in specific ways were able to survive.
Think about it: as a human being, we need a community to survive. Doesn’t it make sense that this principle would apply to the relationships that other species have with each other, too?
Dogs and Wolves
You may know that modern-day dogs evolved from wolves. But while wolves are far more physically threatening, their numbers are sadly dwindling. On the other hand, dogs thrive as a species because of their mutually beneficial relationships with human beings!
Thousands of years ago, the friendliest wolves basically domesticated themselves by relying on humans for easy food sources. Today, their numbers are holding steady, while wolves haven’t been so lucky.
Flowering Plants
Yes, even flowering plants with “friendly” relationships with other animal species are more likely to keep growing and thriving! Specific plants attract animals like insects that spread their pollen around. This dynamic allows the species to continue surviving. They can spread further as a species with the help of these animals.
Chimps and Bonobos
In an evolutionary sense, human beings are closely related to bonobos and chimpanzees. But one species tends to exhibit more friendliness than the other, and they seem to enjoy a more comfortable and peaceful existence.
While chimps engage in war-like behavior, bonobos are much more friendly with each other. They are more likely to help fellow members of their species when necessary. Because of this, Hare and Woods say that the most successful bonobos have happier and more comfortable lives than the most successful chimpanzees — they don’t need to be on the lookout for constant threats!
The Benefits of Friendliness
To sum up, the research laid out by Hare and Woods indicates that there are some serious misconceptions in the way we think of evolution. Instead of thinking of it as a form of competition, we might be better off considering how cooperation plays a significant role.
And cooperation doesn’t just take place between members of one species but across the animal kingdom. While it is true that physical strength and the will to fight can be beneficial in some aspects, this is not the sole factor that determines whether or not a species will be an evolutionary success.
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Do you feel like you’re struggling to make the kinds of connections you need within your community? Are you finding it tough to make it through the day without your friends to lean on?
Sometimes, regular therapy can help you branch out and form those necessary social connections. Reach out to me today to discuss your options for scheduling your first session. Also, feel free to visit my page on mindfulness-based therapy to learn more.