Charles Darwin, an evolutionary theorist, found it difficult to explain altruism. From an evolutionary perspective, it would initially seem that over centuries and generations, altruistic behaviors would __________ because __________.
A) increase; more unfit offspring might survive
B) disappear; self-sacrifice would produce fewer offspring
C) disappear; only the fittest, most selfless offspring would survive
D) remain unchanged; the gene pool would become more variable

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to evolutionary theory, individuals who prioritize their own survival and reproduction over others would be more likely to pass on their genes to future generations. Altruistic behaviors, which involve self-sacrifice for the benefit of others, would therefore seem disadvantageous and unlikely to be passed on. As a result, over time, altruistic behaviors would be expected to disappear as individuals who engage in them produce fewer offspring. Therefore, option B is the best choice as it explains that altruistic behaviors would decrease over time.

Charles Darwin, an Evolutionary Theorist, Found It Difficult to Explain