Abstract

This paper develops the idea that a coherent theory of humanity's propensity for warfare can be constructed from the evolutionary model of man. It proposes that kin selection has interacted with environmental forces over evolutionary time to predispose genetically related individuals to band together in groups, oriented for conflict. It advances a model of ethnic readiness for conflict/warfare by combining Hamilton's axiom of inclusive fitness with principles of individual cost/benefit analysis. And, it draws attention to differences between our model and existing attempts to explain ethnic mobilization/collective action.

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