An Evolutionary Theory of Resource Distribution

Blair Fix

EconStor Open Access Articles and Book Chapters, 2019, issue 90, 65-97

Abstract: This paper explores how the evolution of human sociality can help us understand how we distribute resources. Using ideas from sociobiology, I argue that resource distribution is marked by a tension between two levels of natural selection. At the group level, selfless behavior is advantageous. But at the individual level, selfish behavior is advantageous. I explore how this tension affects the distribution of resources.

Keywords: distribution; evolution; selfishness; selflessness (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D23 L23 P16 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2019
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:zbw:espost:209515

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