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As Darwin pointed out in The Origin of Species (opening…

“As Darwin pointed out in The Origin of Species (opening pages of chapter three), the 'struggle for existence' can often be described just as well as a mutual dependence. And harmless coexistence as parts of the same eco-sphere is also a very common relation. . . . Among social creatures, positive…” quote by Mary Midgley
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““As Darwin pointed out in The Origin of Species (opening pages of chapter three), the 'struggle for existence' can often be described just as well as a mutual dependence. And harmless coexistence as parts of the same eco-sphere is also a very common relation. . . . Among social creatures, positive gregariousness, a liking for each other's company, is the steady, unnoticed background for the conflicts.””

Mary Midgley

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Cooperation and mutual dependence are as fundamental as competition in social life.

In simple terms: Cooperation matters as much as competition.

Key Takeaway

Foster collaborative relationships.

Themes

cooperation dependence conflict

Mood

balanced thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • workplace teams
  • community projects
  • environmental stewardship

Key Concepts

biology ethics social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance cooperation with healthy competition?
  • When is competition beneficial?
A Different Perspective

Competition can also drive innovation and progress.

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