Summary of The Selfish Gene

The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins introduces the concept of the selfish gene, which states that the primary unit of natural selection is the gene, rather than the individual. Dawkins argues that genes are the driving force behind evolution and that organisms are simply “survival machines” for the genes themselves. He challenges the traditional view of evolution as a process driven by competition between species and individuals, and instead focuses on the competition between genes. Dawkins explains how genes use natural selection to their advantage and why traits, such as altruism, can evolve even though they appear to be beneficial to the group, rather than the individual. He also explores the implications of the selfish gene theory for human behavior and society.