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Darwinism Applied Evolutionary Paths to Social Goals
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John H. Beckstrom
Book Code: C4568
ISBN: 0-275-94568-5
ISBN-13: 978-0-275-94568-8
184 pages, figures
Praeger Publishers
Publication: 8/30/1993
List Price: $103.95 (UK Sterling Price: £59.95)
Availability: Print on demand
Media Type: Hardcover
Trim Size: 6 1/8 x 9 1/4
Subjects:
  • Endorsement From Carl N. Degler Margaret Byrne Professor of American History Stanford University: "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."
Description: 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.
Table of Contents:
  • Proper Use of Evolutionary Science in Social Affairs
  • Evolutionary Biology Primer I: Aid-Giving Behavior
  • Reducing Child Abuse
  • Reducing Sibling Incest
  • Distributing the Property of People Who Die Without a Will
  • Evolutionary Biology Primer II: Reproductive Strategy
  • Reducing Rape
  • Reducing Street Crime
  • Help on the Horizon
  • When Evolutionary Learning Will Not Help
  • What Are We Likely to Do Tomorrow?
  • Select Bibliography
  • Index
LC Card Number: 93-2863
LCC Class: GN365
Dewey Class: 304.5
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