The Selfish Gene By Richard Dawkins Analysis

A.
The Selfish Gene, authored by Richard Dawkins, attempts reconsider the longstanding theory of evolution by adjusting the perspective of the reader and scientific community. Dawkins asserts that Darwinian evolution, as it is presently taught, is vulnerable to misinterpretation given the unit of selection most commonly discussed. To clarify, the phrase “survival of the fittest” is often bandied about whenever a textbook or lecture broaches the topic of evolution. But who, or what, is the fittest? The survival of the fittest species? The survival of the fittest genus? Dawkins has surmised that the ultimate unit of selection is “the gene, the unity of heredity.” He arrives at this conclusion through a series of assumptions associated with the beginning of
life on earth. Dawkins concludes that the tendency of atoms, molecules, organisms, etc. to constantly seek a state of greater stability (relating to the 2nd law of thermodynamics, entropy) eventually led to the development of life by means of mutation. This series of events provides the proper foundation on which Dawkins may perch his assertion that all organisms are born selfish. In this instance “selfish behavior may simply consist of refusing to share some valued resource such as food, territory, or sexual partners.”
To be clear, the term selfishness refers to an action that increases the survivability of an organism, juxtaposed with altruism which refers to an action that decreases the survivability of an organism. Throughout the work these terms describe only the behaviors of organisms, not their perceived morality or value. Dawkins roundly criticizes those who subscribe to group-selection theory. This theory asserts that members of a species will act in an altruistic manner that aids the perpetuation of their species. Dawkins believes this theory is unfounded given that the introduction of a member (through mutation, migration, etc.) who prioritizes themselves over any other member of the group would allow the most selfish member to more easily pass on their genes, thereby distributing selfish genes throughout the entire population over the course of several generations. This scenario relies on the determinants of genetic variation discussed in class. Through his criticism Dawkins clarifies his argument stating the genes impart certain phenotypical traits upon an organism to ensure their own replication, serving themselves (the genes) without regard for the organism. This is not say that the genes are sentient, but rather structured to replicate to their fullest potential in an innately competitive environment.

B.
1. Dawkins asserts that “our brains have evolved to the point where we are capable of rebelling against our selfish genes.” He believes this to be proven without a doubt due to a wide use of contraception in modern times. This assertion is myopic and poorly supported with further thought. If a family were to not use contraception in modern times their offspring would be less likely to maintain a standard of living amenable to continued existence and thereby reproductive success. By limiting the potential size of a family, dedicating resources to a small number of offspring, a family is then able to ensure that a child is able to survive and replicate following humans’ lengthy maturation process.
2. Dawkins is highly critical of traditional philosophical teachings, labeling any thought that is not consistent with Darwin as inane and unrefined. He implies that the teachings of philosophy must be rooted in Darwinism to maintain any sort of legitimacy, thereby excluding teachings of logic and mathematics. Classical philosophical material wholly retains its value regardless of its interactions with Darwinism. To suggest that Darwinism is the be-all and end-all of philosophical thought is unnecessarily
limiting.