Peace on Earth
This myth will die a hard death but when it does…
The popular view of our ancient ancestors as hunters who conquered all in their way is wrong, researchers have told a major US science conference.
Instead, they say, early humans were on the menu for predatory beasts.
This may have driven humans to evolve increased levels of co-operation, according to their theory.
Despite humankind’s considerable capacity for war and violence, we are highly sociable animals, according to anthropologists.
Among the academic publications on the web site of one such researcher is “A neural basis for social cooperation.” (PDF)
Earlier news reports include: “Why cooperation feels so good” which notes:
An Emory University study indicates that cooperation, teamwork and reciprocated altruism stimulate areas of the brain that result in feelings of pleasure. Brain scans have revealed a biologically embedded basis for cooperation.