The Fairness Instinct

Synopsis

Combining research from the social sciences, hard sciences, and the humanities, this accessible cross-disciplinary book offers fascinating insights into a key component of human nature and society. Biologist L. Sun examines the innate sense of fairness displayed by human beings in all kinds of societies throughout history. He argues persuasively that it is an emotion and behavior rooted in our DNA, rather than a product of ideology or convention. Citing animal studies that show that even monkeys react negatively to patently unfair treatment, Sun delves into the issue of why this instinct may have evolved with a new biological framework. Specifically, he identifies two selective forces behind the evolution of fairness. One is the need for resolving conflicts of interest in social groups, and the other is a bottom-up drive pushing toward equality in resource sharing in the hierarchies of society. Turning to the down side of the fairness instinct, the author shows that when it plays too great a role in leveling inequalities, it can have negative repercussions, such as a society where outstanding achievers arouse envy and only mediocrity is condoned. Even worse is the vicious cycle of spite resulting from an injured sense of fairness, which can easily spill over into violence. Finally, the author considers the role that fairness plays in religion with its promise to ultimately overcome the prejudices and inequality of human society by offering the hope of divine justice.

Copyright:

2013

Book Details

Book Quality:

Publisher Quality

ISBN-13:

9781616148485

Related ISBNs:

9781616148478

Publisher:

Prometheus Books

Date of Addition:

10/15/13

Copyrighted By:

L. Sun

Adult content:

No

Language:

English

Has Image Descriptions:

No

Categories:

Nonfiction, Science, Social Studies

Submitted By:

Bookshare Staff

Usage Restrictions:

This is a copyrighted book.