Darwinism Applied: Evolutionary Paths to Social Goals

(Hardback)

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Beckstrom explores how discoveries in evolutionary science can help people achieve, but not establish, social goals. Beginning with the principle that human behavior is, to some degree, influenced by genetics, the author considers how conduct can be modified in large population groupings using identified behavioral mechanisms. Aid-giving behavior common to human populations is established as a key factor that is fundamental to an understanding of its flip side involving abuse and neglect. The universal objectives of reducing child abuse, rape, incest, and war are explicitly addressed, as are such areas as intestate property distribution, street crime reduction, and the fostering or discouragement of patriotism. This book is a clear treatment of what practical implications neo-Darwinism can have for contemporary societies.

Reviews

"I was impressed by the care, balance and lucidity with which Beckstrom linked Darwinian evolutionary thought to the problem of dealing with relevant social problems. The book will open many people's eyes to the possibilities that flow from an informed view of Darwinist thought on social issues. Yet, throughout Beckstrom is careful not to make inflated claims or applications. His admission of the limits of sociobiology is at once commendatory and wise."-Carl N. Degler Margaret Byrne Professor of American History Stanford University

Author Bio

JOHN H. BECKSTROM is Emeritus Professor of Law at Northwestern Univerity's School of Law. He holds degrees from the Univerity of Iowa, Harvard University, and the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, where he was a Fulbright scholar. He earlier published Sociobiology and the Law and, in 1989, Evolutionary Jurisprudence.