Evolution proves ‘good guys’ do win

Group co-operation beats being selfish, according to a biologist who believes his evolutionary theory has impacts for businesses and communities.

David Sloan Wilson champions the idea that, rather than evolution being driven just by individual self-interest, “multilevel selection” sees individuals evolve to behave in a way that benefits their group, which then does better as a result.

Prof. Wilson is attempting to test out his theories in a struggling city in New York state, Binghamton, eccouraging community projects ranging from creating parks to rewarding school children for good behaviour and co-operation.

The researcher, who is professor at the department of biological sciences at the State University of New York, has come to the UK to speak at a conference organised by the Co-operative Group.

He said: “For decades we have been told that evolution is based entirely on individual and genetic self-interest which does not extend to groups.

“Is it any wonder that we have produced countless business leaders, financiers and politicians for whom the selfish pursuit of self-interest is a natural law and a maxim to live by?

“The truth is that individuals can evolve to behave for the good of their groups and that co-operation is the signature adaptation of our own species.

“Selfishness might beat co-operation within groups, but co-operative groups beat selfish groups.”

Paul Monaghan, head of social goals at the Co-operative Group, said Prof. Wilson’s work showed “not only can good guys finish first, if they work together, but this is the natural way of things”.

He said the group, which is owned by its members, will be showcasing the “most optimistic of truths” later in the year and supporting research to see how to build “resilient, co-operative communities” in the UK.