Blog 6: Altruism

Altruism refers to any behavior by an individual that increases the fitness of another while decreasing their own fitness. Altruism can evolve as a result of benefiting both parties involved, although it may not be immediate for one, in the long run the altruist also benefits. Such an example is seen in vampire bats. They will share acquired blood meals with others who were unsuccessful hunting one evening in securing their own meal. They do this not because they are ‘Kind” and ‘Loving” but instead have ulterior motives. Sharing their meal with those who have none will increase the likelihood that if they were placed in a similar situation one night where food was not found they will secure the same help from those that they have helped in the past. However this behavior will only persist throughout time is if memory and learning also co-evolve. They must have the capability to recognize individuals whom helped and or hurt them in the past. This “learning” mechanism allows there to be a punishment of cheaters and reward to cooperators.
This time of scenario is called the prisoner’s dilemma.

By the prisoner’s dilemma the best way to receive the greatest reward is to be the individual who defects the other and gains all benefits while the other is punished. If both individuals cooperate, the punishment is still present but at a much lower amount along with a small benefit. The latter scenario is thought best for a first-time encounter between altruistic animals who can distinguish between individuals who have helped and punish those who cheated. It is always best to cooperate at the first time encounter although the greater benefit is to defect and run, it will only be advantageous for that particular time. Later on in the future the individual you betrayed will remember and punish you for cheating before by not helping you this time around.