If, as Darwin suggests, evolution relentlessly encourages the survival of the fittest, why are humans compelled
to live in cooperative, complex societies? In this fascinating examination of the roots of human trust and virtue,
a zoologist and former American editor of the Economist reveals the results of recent studies that suggest that
self-interest and mutual aid are not at all incompatible. In fact, he points out, our cooperative instincts may
have evolved as part of mankind's natural selfish behavior--by exchanging favors we can benefit ourselves as well
as others.
Brilliantly orchestrating the newest findings of geneticists, psychologists, and anthropologists, The Origins of
Virtue re-examines the everyday assumptions upon which we base our actions towards others, whether in our roles
as parents, siblings, or trade partners. With the wit and brilliance of The Red Queen, his acclaimed study of human
and animal sexuality, Matt Ridley shows us how breakthroughs in computer programming, microbiology, and economics
have given us a new perspective on how and why we relate to each other.