The Selfish Gene

About this book

The Selfish Gene presents a gene-centered view of evolution, arguing that natural selection operates primarily at the level of genes rather than individuals or species. Dawkins explains that organisms act as “survival machines” designed to preserve and pass on genes, which behave in ways that maximize their own replication. The book explores how this perspective helps explain behaviors such as altruism, cooperation, and competition in both humans and animals. It introduces key concepts like kin selection and reciprocal altruism, showing how seemingly selfless actions can arise from underlying genetic interests. Dawkins also introduces the idea of “memes,” units of cultural transmission that spread through imitation, shaping human culture in ways analogous to genes in biological evolution. The book explores themes of evolution, behavior, survival, and the biological basis of human nature.