Kin Selection

Hamilton's rule rb > c and the evolution of altruism among relatives

Hamilton's Rule: rb > c
0.50 × 3.0 = 1.50 > 1.0 ✓
Hamilton's rule (1964): an altruistic gene spreads when rb > c, where r = coefficient of relatedness, b = fitness benefit to recipient, c = fitness cost to actor. Altruism can be selected even when it reduces personal fitness, if it sufficiently benefits genetic relatives. r values: identical twins = 1.0, siblings = 0.5, half-siblings = 0.25, cousins = 0.125.