[ExI] Group Selection Advances

[hkhenson]

At 02:37 PM 5/1/2009, Billk wrote:
>On 5/1/09, hkhenson wrote:
> >  The last sentence is not true, because creatures *DO NOT* act in their own
> > self interest.  They act in the self interest of their genes.  Most of the
> > time that *looks* like self interest.  Then along comes a 
> situation where it
> > is clear that the interest of the creature and it's genes have 
> diverged--and
> > the genes dictate the response.
> >
>Isn't this disproved by the falling birth rates in first world societies?

No.  The only thing this shows is a temporary mismatch between the 
environment (including culture as environmental element) and the 
genes.  Come back and see what genes are around after 20 generations.

>Developed societies are deciding that riches and a comfortable
>lifestyle is preferable to the trouble and expense of raising
>children.
>
>Surely it isn't in the self interest of the genes to reduce reproduction?

Never.  By definition.

Keith