Runaway Social Selection in Human Evolution

Darwin posited that social competition among conspecifics could be a powerful selective pressure. Alexander proposed model of human evolution involving runaway process based on Darwin’s insight. Here we briefly review Alexander’s logic, and then expand upon his by elucidating six core arenas selection involve runaway, positive-feedback processes, were likely involved in the remarkable combination adaptations humans. We discuss how these ideas fit with hypothesis key life history innovation opened door to selection, cumulative culture, during hominin was increased cooperation individuals small fission-fusion groups.