Being nice Quote by Richard Dawkins
“The rule of thumb based into the brain by natural selection would not have been, Be nice to your kin and be nice to potential reciprocators. It would have been, Be nice to everybody, because everybody would have been included.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins, 1976
Natural selection favors reciprocal altruism, but broader kindness may emerge from inclusive social norms.
In simple terms: Altruism evolves, yet universal kindness is beneficial.
Key Takeaway
Promote inclusive cooperation beyond kin.
Themes
evolutionary biology
ethics
social behavior
reciprocity
Mood
analytical
inquisitive
Type
scientific
philosophical
When to use this quote
- teamwork
- community building
- conflict resolution
- policy design
Key Concepts
Kin selection
reciprocal altruism
inclusive fitness
Questions to Reflect On
- Can moral education override selfish instincts?
- What limits universal altruism?
A Different Perspective
Human societies often act beyond strict evolutionary incentives.
