Skip to content

The likelihood that, in attacking a member of your own…

“The likelihood that, in attacking a member of your own species, you will get hurt is a powerful selection pressure that disfavors indiscriminate pouncing or lashing out.” quote by Steven Pinker
Download Open image
““The likelihood that, in attacking a member of your own species, you will get hurt is a powerful selection pressure that disfavors indiscriminate pouncing or lashing out.””

Steven Pinker

About This Quote

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

Intra‑species aggression is naturally limited by evolutionary pressures against random violence.

In simple terms: Evolution discourages indiscriminate attacks on our own species.

Key Takeaway

Recognize innate limits on aggression.

Themes

evolution aggression selection human nature

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

scientific educational

When to use this quote

  • conflict resolution
  • policy making
  • education
  • social behavior

Key Concepts

Evolutionary biology psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What social structures reduce unnecessary aggression?
  • How do cultural norms interact with evolutionary drives?
A Different Perspective

Human aggression can still be amplified by cultural factors.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Steven Pinker

Explore all 495 Steven Pinker quotes

More Attacking quotes

Browse all 580 Attacking quotes