In the popular science book, The Selfish Gene, Richard Dawkins explains his theory of evolution, and its occurrence for the good of the gene rather than the good of the species or individual. Dawkins believes the gene to be practically immortal, carrying on generation upon generation. By calling them “selfish” Dawkins describes a genes’ strategy of competition for survival, its tendency to behave in a manor suited to ensure its propagation. “Genes are competing directly …showed first 75 words of 1171 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1171 total…two examples. Although they are not EES’s, they can be effective strategies of gene survival. “They could herald the benignant idea that, even with selfish genes at the helm, nice guys can finish first.” (P.233) Although our genes, by nature, instruct us to be selfish, we have the ability to revolt against them. Altruism and benevolence make an ideal society, and it is a human’s responsibility to teach this behavior to its kin.