Benefits Quote by Stephen Jay Gould
“Surely the mitochondrion that first entered another cell was not thinking about the future benefits of cooperation and integration; it was merely trying to make its own living in a tough Darwinian world”
About This Quote
Early mitochondria acted selfishly for survival, not for cooperation.
In simple terms: Mitochondria prioritized self‑interest.
Cooperation can arise from self‑interest.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- medical research
- bioengineering
- education
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does selfishness foster collaboration?
- What limits symbiotic evolution?
Self‑interest may not always lead to cooperation.