The Role of Cooperative Behavior in Evolution

A re-interpretation of Darwin's work has led to the emergence of some new thoughts on the degree of influence cooperative or altruistic behavior had on human and animal evolution. Now, we are beginning to realize the importance of cooperation within and between species during the course of animal and plant evolution. As we learn more about how significant cooperative behavior has been during evolution, we can disabuse ourselves of the misconceptions that the term "survival of the fittest" can arouse.