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Single Idea 5318

[from 'On Human Nature' by Edmund O. Wilson, in 22. Metaethics / B. Value / 2. Values / f. Altruism ]

Full Idea

Pure hard-core altruism based on kin selection is the enemy of civilisation.

Gist of Idea

Pure hard-core altruism based on kin selection is the enemy of civilisation

Source

Edmund O. Wilson (On Human Nature [1978], Ch.7)

Book Reference

Wilson,Edward O.: 'On Human Nature' [Penguin 1995], p.157


A Reaction

By 'hard-core' he means suicidally self-sacrificing, rather than extensive. This seems a good thesis. It strikes me that the development of civil society is often impeded by family loyalty, such as in the case of the Mafia.