Researchers: We're Wired for Kindness

It may often seem as though unsavory traits and behaviors are not merely rewarded but perhaps expected for people to make their way in modern society. An upended, misappropriation of the evolutionary research of Charles Darwin has long held cultural currency, such that the very phrase "survival of the fittest" conjures up in many minds the readiness of individuals and nations alike to open up a big old can of brutality at the drop of a hat when conflict arises.

A research center in California, however, is bringing scientific research methodology to bear on the matter, and they are drawing completely different conclusions about the human condition and of the evolutionary basis for how we treat each other. According to the cross-disciplinary research team at the University of California Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center, we come into this world hard-wired for kindness and altruism.

As reported by PhysOrg, the center's work focuses on a core principle that they call "the survival of the kindest." Their efforts draw upon fields from a wide range of social and biological sciences. Recent studies performed by the center have uncovered genetic characteristics underpinning a predisposition for niceness. From a longer-term, evolutionary perspective, their work points to patterns that suggest individuals who behave aggressively or selfishly are prone to be banished or shunned; generosity, alternately, is rewarded with the extension of respect and appreciation by others.

Dacher Keltner, a psychologist and co-director of the center, explains to PhysOrg the basis for their explorations into why we are actually suited for looking out for one another:

"Because of our very vulnerable offspring, the fundamental task for human survival and gene replication is to take care of others. Human beings have survived as a species because we have evolved the capacities to care for those in need and to cooperate. As Darwin long ago surmised, sympathy is our strongest instinct."

Photo courtesy of Mr.Thomas, via Flickr