Evolution shapes our instincts over time from "summary" of The Human Instinct by Kenneth R. Miller
The concept that underlies the very essence of our nature as human beings is that evolution has shaped our instincts over time. Our instincts, those deep and powerful urges that guide our behavior, are not fixed and unchanging. They have been honed and refined through the process of evolution, adapting to the changing environment in which we live. Consider, for example, our instinct to protect and care for our young. This instinct is not unique to humans; it is found throughout the animal kingdom. In humans, however, this instinct has been shaped and molded over millions of years of evolution. The care and protection we provide for our children is not simply a cultural norm or learned behavior; it is a deeply ingrained instinct that has been passed down through generations. Similarly, our instinct for social interaction and cooperation has been shaped by evolution. Humans are social animals, and our ability to work together in groups has been a key factor in our survival and success as a species. This instinct for cooperation, like ...
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