The presence of altruistic behavior is most likely due to kin selection, a theory maintaining that ________.
A) genes enhance survival of copies of themselves by directing organisms to assist others who share those genes
B) companionship is advantageous to animals because in the future they can help each other
C) critical thinking abilities are normal traits for animals and they have arisen, like other traits, through natural selection
D) natural selection has generally favored the evolution of exaggerated aggressive and submissive behaviors to resolve conflict without grave harm to participants

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Kin selection theory suggests that genes that enhance the survival of copies of themselves are more likely to be passed on to future generations. One way this can happen is by directing organisms to assist others who share those genes, even if it comes at a cost to the individual organism. This altruistic behavior towards kin increases the chances of survival for both the individual and its relatives who share similar genes.

The Presence of Altruistic Behavior Is Most Likely Due to Kin