TeXes Science Practice Test

What behavioral pattern in organisms is often viewed as counter to Darwin's Theory of Evolution?

1. Natural selection

2. Altruism

3. Adaptation

4. Competition

The correct answer is: Altruism

Altruism is considered a behavioral pattern that challenges Darwin's Theory of Evolution primarily because it involves individuals acting in ways that benefit others at a cost to themselves. Traditionally, Darwinian evolution emphasizes the concept of survival of the fittest, where traits that enhance an organism's ability to survive and reproduce are passed on to future generations. In the case of altruism, behaviors such as helping a relative or sacrificing one's own reproductive opportunities for the sake of another seem to contradict the premise that individuals primarily act in their own self-interest to maximize their genetic contribution. However, through concepts like kin selection and inclusive fitness, evolutionary biologists have provided explanations for altruistic behavior, suggesting that helping relatives can indirectly promote the survival of shared genes. This context helps illuminate why altruism stands out in discussions about evolutionary theory, showing that while it appears counterintuitive to the notion of self-centric evolution, it can also be integrated into a broader understanding of how species develop complex social behaviors.