Selfish-gene theory and levels of selection

Book chapter

Dickins, T. 2018. Selfish-gene theory and levels of selection. in: Callan, H. (ed.) The International Encyclopedia of Anthropology Wiley. pp. 1-11
Chapter titleSelfish-gene theory and levels of selection
AuthorsDickins, T.
Abstract

The generic nature of Darwinian evolution is discussed. A distinction between a Special Theory of Evolution, embodied by selfish gene theory and inclusive fitness theory, and a General Theory of Evolution is introduced. The latter has no particular commitment to a level of selection and incorporates both classic group selection and more modern models of multi-level selection. These two positions are detailed and key literature reviewed.

Research GroupBehavioural Biology group
Page range1-11
Book titleThe International Encyclopedia of Anthropology
EditorsCallan, H.
PublisherWiley
ISBN
Hardcover9780470657225
Publication dates
Online05 Sep 2018
Print25 Jul 2018
Publication process dates
Deposited03 Apr 2017
Accepted25 Aug 2015
Output statusPublished
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1002/9781118924396.wbiea1600
LanguageEnglish
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