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Roisin Mooney
Human species primary drive of evolution has been social interaction. As the human species began to cooperate among each other, social competition arose. In turn this advanced the intellect of humans. As humans grouped together and built cooperative bonds, individuals then started competing against each other. It was only by the building of coalitions that competition was used for evolutionary advancements. (Alexander, 6) The types of evolutionary advancements made due to social cooperation were genetic, intellectual and the length of children’s life span.
Genetic advancements were made by the competition between males to reproduce. As males developed physical traits and abilities, they pass their genes. The men who were successful at portraying their traits were picked by females and their genes were passed on. The competitiveness between males strengthens intellect and physical strength by forcing men to out do other men. Men show intellect and physical ability by competing in task of strength, skill and bravery. (Diamond,198)
The use of group cooperation also made life styles of humans living in groups easier then if they where on their own. This gave humans more free time to thing about other things not necessary for living. (Diamond, 181) This is a theory that is believed to explain the advancement of language and art. Scenario building and the transferring of ideas in art evolve the human psyche and intellect. (Alexander,11)
The advancement of human life span is also in correlation to group living. Human babies need more time and energy to be raised then other mammals. While living in groups non-parental adults are known for assisting other members of their group in child rising. For example women who have gone through menopause will often take care of relative’s siblings. (Alexander, 13) The more effort parents put in rearing their children, the more knowledge they gain. Children with more knowledge are better equipped with tools to survive. (Alexander, 13)
