HEB 1383: Why be nice? The biological basis of cooperation Ian C. Gilby The theory of evolution by natural selection hinges upon the fact that individuals are in constant competition over food, mates and other valuable resources. Yet, many animals frequently behave in ways that benefit others, often at an apparent cost to themselves. Such behavior seems puzzling. Through lecture, discussion and literature-based research, we will investigate the evolution of cooperation in animals as a basis for understanding cooperation in human societies. Prerequisites – Introductory biology or Science B-29 or HEB 1330 or permission from instructor.HEB 1330: Primate Social Behavior Ian C. Gilby and Richard W. Wrangham A review of the behavioral interactions in natural primate populations, drawing on experimental, observational, and theoretical studies. Discussion of ecological, physiological, and developmental bases of primate social behavior, with special attention to the evolution of patterns of behavioral interactions among individuals of different age, sex, relatedness, and status. Topics include sexual conflict, sexual selection, and mating systems; care of offspring and other aid-giving; manipulative and cooperative aspects of communication; competition, dominance, and territoriality; and the evolution of social relationships.
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