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In defence of inclusive fitness theory

Nature volume 471, pages E8–E9 (2011)Cite this article

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A Brief Communications Arising to this article was published on 23 March 2011

Abstract

Arising from M. A. Nowak, C. E. Tarnita & E. O. Wilson Nature 466, 1057–1062 (2010)10.1038/nature09205; Nowak et al. reply

Arguably the defining characteristic of the scientific process is its capacity for self-criticism and correction1. Nowak et al.2 challenge proposed connections between relatedness and the evolution of eusociality3, suggest instead that defensible nests and “spring-loaded” traits are key, and present alternative modelling approaches. They then dismiss the utility of Hamilton’s insight that relatedness has a profound evolutionary effect3, formalized in his widely accepted inclusive fitness theory as Hamilton’s rule (“Rise and fall of inclusive fitness theory”). However, we believe that Nowak et al.2 fail to make their case for logical, theoretical and empirical reasons.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Apartado 0843-03092, Balboa, Republic of Panama,

    Edward Allen Herre & William T. Wcislo

  2. Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, MRC 0580-06, unit 9100 Box 0948, DPO AA, 34002-9998, USA

    Edward Allen Herre & William T. Wcislo

Authors
  1. Edward Allen Herre
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  2. William T. Wcislo
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Both authors contributed extensively to all aspects of this work.

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Correspondence to Edward Allen Herre.

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Competing financial interests: declared none.

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Herre, E., Wcislo, W. In defence of inclusive fitness theory. Nature 471, E8–E9 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1038/nature09835

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