Survival of the Friendliest: Understanding Our Origins and Rediscovering Our Common Humanity

Analyze the theme of cooperation versus competition in the book. How do the authors argue that cooperation has been more critical to human survival and success? Provide specific examples from the text.

Look closely at the language used by the authors when discussing empathy. How does this language support their argument that empathy is essential to human progress?

Explore the concept of self-domestication in Survival of the Friendliest. How do Hare and Woods compare human self-domestication to that of other species, and what evidence do they provide to support their claims?

How do the authors use examples from different cultures and historical periods to support their thesis? Why do you think they have drawn on these particular examples for the various stages of their argument?

Evaluate the authors’ use of scientific evidence and research in Survival of the Friendliest. Do you think they balance scientific rigor with accessibility for a general audience? Why or why not?

Analyze the literary devices used by Hare and Woods to make complex scientific ideas more relatable and understandable. How effective are these devices in engaging the reader?

Choose a current social or political problem and apply the book’s lessons on human evolution and the importance of friendliness to suggest solutions to it. How practical do you find this model of problem-solving?

Explore the authors’ treatment of dehumanization concerning historical and modern acts of violence and prejudice. How does their presentation of dehumanization relate to or contrast with their approach to human exceptionalism?