Final answer:
If you believe that altruistic behavior is an indicator of the ability to regulate biological drives, you are thinking along the lines of the selfish gene theory proposed by Richard Dawkins. This theory suggests that genes can appear selfish if the sacrifice of an individual benefits related individuals who share similar genes. Brain scanning technology has also shown that altruistic behaviors activate the same pleasure centers in the brain as activities like eating chocolate or having sex. However, there are ongoing debates regarding the true nature of altruism and whether pure altruism exists.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you believe that altruistic behavior is an indicator of the ability to regulate biological drives, your thinking would be similar to the concept of the selfish gene theory proposed by scientist Richard Dawkins. According to this theory, genes can appear selfish if the sacrifice of an individual benefits related individuals that share genes identical by descent. For example, mammal parents make sacrifices to care for their offspring. Additionally, brain scanning technology has shown that altruistic behaviors activate the same pleasure centers in the brain as activities like eating chocolate or having sex.
Evolutionary game theory also suggests that many behaviors labeled as altruistic may actually have selfish components. Furthermore, it is argued that the terms 'selfish' and 'altruistic' may not be directly applicable to instinctual animal behavior. Ultimately, heritable behaviors that improve the chances of passing on one's genes are favored by natural selection.
It is important to note that there are ongoing debates among scientists regarding the true nature of altruism and whether pure altruism exists. Some researchers suggest that altruism operates on empathy, while others argue that helping is always self-serving due to ego involvement. Overall, the roots of altruism in human morality may lie in social animals such as primates, and neuroscientists have identified mirror neurons in the brain that play a role in empathy.