Moral Animal - Hardcover

Wright, Robert

4.08

11,432 ratings by Goodreads

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0316875015 ISBN 13: 9780316875011

Publisher: Pub Overstock Unlimited Inc, 1994

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Robert Wright examines a new science that has emerged from the work of evolutionary biologists and the social sciences. Taking the life and work of the evolutionist Charles Darwin as his context, Wright demonstrates how Darwin's ideas are still relevant today. He retells - from the perspective of evolutionary psychology - the stories of Darwin's marriage, family life and career. From this paradigm Wright draws conclusions about the structure of people's most basic preoccupations - sex, ambition, politics, justice - throwing light on the background of these fundamental instincts, showing why they are so important, and explaining how their importance often gives rise to conflicts. This book poses questions about not only the biological bases for morality, but also the biological bases for amorality.

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Review:

An accessible introduction to the science of evolutionary psychology and how it explains many aspects of human nature. Unlike many books on the topic,which focus on abstractions like kin selection, this book focuses on Darwinian explanations of why we are the way we are--emotionally and morally. Wright deals particularly well with explaining the reasons for the stereotypical dynamics of the three big "S's:" sex, siblings, and society.

From the Inside Flap:

rally born to cheat? Does monogamy actually serve women's interests? These are among the questions that have made The Moral Animal one of the most provocative science books in recent years. Wright unveils the genetic strategies behind everything from our sexual preferences to our office politics--as well as their implications for our moral codes and public policies. Illustrations.

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