According to the neuro-scientist, Jonathan Haidt, humans are instinctively unselfish in some key respects. He sees altruism - acting for others rather than out of self-interest - as an evolutionary development.
This suggests that an inclination to help others - is at least partially heritable.
More fascinating insights into some new ideas in psychology here:
The Happiness Hypothesis: Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom by Jonathan Haidt
The Social Animal: The Hidden Sources of Love, Character, and Achievement
What's the evidence, Mr Haidt?
There are signs that some forms of altruism are instinctive rather than learned. Even a very young child will come to you aid if you are struggling to open a door, for example.This suggests that an inclination to help others - is at least partially heritable.
But isn't evolutionary theory based on the idea of the 'survival of the fittest'?
Co-operation gives humans a competitive advantage over other speciesBut what's with the giraffe reference?
The giraffe's long neck gives it an advantage over other species. Being nice - some of the time, anyway - is our equivalent of having a neck that gives you that extra bit of stretch when it comes to nabbing that fruit!
BTW: giraffes & humans share the same number of neck vertebrae
The Happiness Hypothesis: Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom by Jonathan Haidt
The Social Animal: The Hidden Sources of Love, Character, and Achievement