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The evolution of intergroup tolerance in nonhuman primates and humans
Anne C Pisor1,2, Martin Surbeck3,4
1Department of Anthropology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington.
Evolutionary Anthropology
|August 7, 2019
Summary
Primate intergroup encounters vary widely. Evolutionary benefits in transfer, mating, and food acquisition can incentivize tolerance, especially in humans due to fluctuating resources and cultural factors.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Ecology
- Evolutionary Anthropology
- Primatology
Background:
- Primate intergroup interactions range from aggression to tolerance.
- Recent research has overemphasized warfare or peace, neglecting behavioral variability.
- Understanding the evolutionary drivers of this variability is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify evolutionary advantages that promote tolerance in intergroup encounters among primates.
- To explore the role of resource availability and cultural institutions in human intergroup behavior.
- To encourage nuanced study of behavioral flexibility in great apes and humans.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of intergroup strategies in primates.
- Exploration of ecological factors influencing human social behavior.
- Review of existing literature on primate and human intergroup dynamics.
Main Results:
- Tolerance towards extra-group individuals can be evolutionarily advantageous.
- Benefits include enhanced opportunities in transfer, mating, and food acquisition.
- Human foraging ecology and cultural institutions may favor tolerant intercommunity relationships.
Conclusions:
- Behavioral flexibility in intergroup encounters is a key area for study.
- Evolutionary incentives for tolerance exist across primate species.
- Further research is needed to understand the nuances of intergroup behavior in humans and great apes.
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