A Biological History of Humanity

Summary:
Selfishness or altruism, self-interest or cooperation - which is more in human nature? As individuals, we are selfish, but as social beings, we prefer selfless behavior, says Edward O. Wilson, the most renowned biologist of our time. A constant conflict exists between these two driving forces, both in society and within each of us. The balance we strive for is always fragile. The Social Conquest of Earth is the culmination of a lifetime of innovative research, the crowning achievement of Edward O. Wilson's life work.

Authors: Wilson, Edward O.; Ranke, Elsbeth (translated by the author):
Edward Osborne Wilson, or E. O. Wilson for short (born 1929), is the most famous biologist of our time. As a (now emeritus) professor, he researches and teaches about the environment, animal behavior, evolution, and biodiversity. His specialty is the study of ant societies; he is also internationally known as the founder of sociobiology. Among his many scientific honors are the American National Medal of Science and the Crafoord Prize from the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences - the world's most prestigious award for ecology. He has received the Pulitzer Prize for Nonfiction twice for his publications.