The purpose of adaptation. Issue 5 (6th October 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gardner, Andy
• Is Part Of: Interface focus. Volume 7:Issue 5(2017)
• Publication Date: 2017-10-06
• Subjects: natural selection -- fundamental theorem -- Darwinism -- inclusive fitness -- social evolution -- superorganism; Physical sciences -- Periodicals; Life sciences -- Periodicals; 500
• DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2017.0005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2042-8898

Abstract

Abstract : A central feature of Darwin's theory of natural selection is that it explains the purpose of biological adaptation. Here, I: emphasize the scientific importance of understanding what adaptations are for, in terms of facilitating the derivation of empirically testable predictions; discuss the population genetical basis for Darwin's theory of the purpose of adaptation, with reference to Fisher's 'fundamental theorem of natural selection'; and show that a deeper understanding of the purpose of adaptation is achieved in the context of social evolution, with reference to inclusive fitness and superorganisms.