Donaldson: Altruistic behavior can mean a more fulfilling life for all

Don't tell the Ayn Rand raving maniacs this.

RE: Donaldson: Altruistic behavior can mean a more fulfilling life for all

A concept called "survival of the kindest" is emerging from an increasing number of social science studies, demonstrating that we might be becoming more compassionate and collaborative in our need to survive in today's society.

According to Yasmin Anwar, who holds a Ph.D. in patient knowledge and chronic disease management, researchers at University of California/Berkeley are "challenging the long-held beliefs that human beings are wired to be selfish.

Contrasting Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection, UC Berkeley psychologist, Dacher Keltner and other social scientists are building the case that humans are successful "because" of our nurturing, altruistic and compassionate traits.

"Human beings have survived as a species because we have evolved the capacities to care for those in need and to cooperate", states Keltner, author of "Born to Be Good: The Science of a Meaningful Life."

"As Darwin long ago surmised, sympathy is our strongest instinct," he says....