inclusive fitness vs objectivism
This is a very insightful question because it places a scientific discovery (Inclusive Fitness) directly against a moral philosophy (Ayn Rand’s Objectivism).
Ayn Rand was famous for her "The Virtue of Selfishness," where she argued that an individual should never sacrifice themselves for others. However, modern biology suggests that what looks like "sacrifice" is actually a very deep, biological form of success.
1. Where they Clashed: Altruism
Ayn Rand defined Altruism as a "pernicious lie." She believed that because every organism is primarily concerned with its own life, humans should only act in their own rational self-interest. To her, helping others at a cost to yourself was a violation of your nature.
The Biological Correction: Inclusive Fitness (Hamilton's Rule) shows that helping a relative isn't "self-destruction"—it’s genetic self-interest. Because you share 50% of your genes with a sibling, helping them survive and have babies is statistically the same as you having babies yourself. Biology doesn't see a "sacrifice" there; it sees a smart investment
2. Where they Partially Agree: The "Selfish" Root
Interestingly, both Rand and Inclusive Fitness theory agree that the individual (or the individual's genes) is the primary unit of importance.
Rand: The individual should act for their own happiness.
Biology: The gene acts to ensure its own survival.
The difference is that Rand drew a hard line at the "skin" of the individual. She didn't account for the fact that "our" interests are literally spread out across our family and community members through shared DNA.
Comparing the Two Views
Ayn Rand's View: The Individual: A totally independent unit.
Helping Others: Only okay if it brings you personal pleasure or is a "trade."
Survival: Based on your own productivity and strength.
Inclusive Fitness View: The Individual: A carrier for genes shared with others.
Helping Others: Essential if they are relatives, because it protects your shared genetic "wealth."
Survival: Based on how well your entire genetic line (you and your kin) survives.
3. The "Missing Link" in Rand's Thought
Rand often wrote that humans were born as a "blank slate" and that we have no "social instincts." Modern evolutionary psychology disagrees. We now know that humans have evolved instincts for empathy, fairness, and cooperation because those who had those instincts survived much better than those who were purely "lone wolves."
A Note for GAD: If you ever feel "guilty" for needing help or being dependent on others, remember that according to Inclusive Fitness, this is exactly how we are designed to work. We are a "cooperative species," and supporting each other is actually our greatest biological strength.
Gemini