Does Altruism Exist? Implications of Selective Investment Theory for Solving Social Problems

Abstract

This article provides an overview of the debate within social psychology concerning the possible existence of altruistic motivation. After presenting the social-psychological background, we describe selective investment theory , an evolutionary theory of altruistic motivation, and discuss the underlying neurobiology. We describe evidence of the theory’s generativity within health psychology and consider its implications for solving social problems in the areas of economics, overpopulation, peace negotiations, and environmental protection.