Survival of the Nicest ― How Altruism Made Us Human and Why It Pays to Get Along

Internationally renowned, bestselling science journalist Stefan shows how we as individuals benefit from altruistic behavior—and why our society cannot function without it. Klein’s blend of cutting-edge research and lively narrative makes The Survival of the Nicest: Why It Pays to Be Good a must-read in our age of globalization, when unchecked greed is a recipe for doom. The author makes the compelling case that in an ever more interconnected world, generosity is the means to achieve personal and societal success. Doing unto others enhances our personal satisfaction, improves our health, and even raises our life expectancy.

This powerful and persuasive new study of altruism thus demonstrates why, in Klein’s words, “the future belongs to the altruists.” Drawing a bold synthesis from findings in economics, sociology, anthropology, politics, game theory, genetics, and other fields, the book establishes how evolution has hard-wired humans to work for one another’s benefit. For example, neuroscience has recently demonstrated that altruism activates the same mechanisms in the brain as enjoying a sexual encounter or eating a chocolate bar—and the effects are longer lasting! By contrast, studies now lay to rest the notion that money buys happiness. The key to prolonging contentment in life, Klein shows persuasively, lies in helping others. Anchored in practical experience, The Survival of the Nicest invites readers to explore the altruistic side of their nature with an eye to enriching their lives.