Summarize the points made in the lecture, being sure to explain how they oppose specific points made in the reading passage
In the lecture, professor contradicted that species or individuals who sacrifice themselves for altruistic acts actually gains more benefit for themselves rather than disadvantages.
From the example of the meerkat, a mammal that inhabits in groups and dwells in burrows in the grassland, lecturer states that the sentinel meerkat is one of the relevant example of gaining one’s benefit by being a sentinel. This sentinel has a duty to stand as a guard and alarm the group with noise when there is any danger of predators. The alarm which sentinel gives off when a predator approach, would cause the group to move rashly which actually draws more attention of the predator to them than the sentinel. Moreover, sentinel Meerkat can get on duty after a full stomach and is in the better position to escape because they are the first ones to find the predator and hide to the nearest burrow. .
In the other example of altruistic act of humans giving their own organs to other individuals, the lecturer pointed out this example also demonstrates the same logic. the reward the donor would receive after such kind action. Although this person might lose one organ, he/she is credited for special social impact and self-worth which is a non-material benefit.
Submitted by Mai Kawaguchi on