Altruism as the Main Ethical Principle: A Scientific Perspective on the Universal Maxim The principle of "altruism" ("do good" or "create benefit") is often considered a moral maxim, however, it can be analyzed as a phenomenon with empirical foundations in evolutionary biology, neuroscience, psychology, and sociology. This principle turns out to be not only a prescription but also a reflection of deep mechanisms that ensure the survival and development of complex social systems, including human society. Evolutionary-Biological Basis: Altruism as an Adaptive Strategy From the perspective of evolutionary theory,无私的“善行”似乎是一种悖论，因为它应该降低个体的生存机会。然而，几个机制解释了它的固定化： kin selection (Hamilton's theory). Genes that encourage an individual to help relatives (even at their own expense) can spread because they promote the survival of shared genes. "Goodness" here is directed at increasing inclusive fitness. Reciprocal (mutual) altruism (Trivers' theory). "You to me, me to you". Individuals practicing mutual assistance gain in the long term. This mechanism requires developed cognitive abilities for detecting "cheaters" and remembering interactions. Altruism becomes a strategy for building sustainable coalitions. Group selection. Groups within which cooperation and mutual assistance (altruism) are more widespread may have an advantage in competition with other groups where egotistic behavior prevails. Thus, the tendency to be good has a "genetic underpinning" that has been exaggerated by culture and morality in human society. Neurobiology of altruism: reward system and mirror neuronsModern neuroscience shows that performing good deeds activates the same areas in the brain as basic rewards (food, money, pleasure). Activation of the mesolimbic system. When a person performs an altruistic act or even just plans it, their ventral tegmental area (VTA) and nucleus accumbens are activated, releasing dopamine — a neurotransmitter associated with motivation and pleasure. This state is known as ... Read more