More on the genetical theory of multilevel selection
Abstract
In my article The genetical theory of multilevel selection, I provided a synthesis of the theory of multilevel selection (MLS) and the theory of natural selection in class-structured populations. I framed this synthesis within Fisher’s genetical paradigm, taking a strictly genetical approach to traits and fitness. I showed that this resolves a number of longstanding conceptual problems that have plagued the MLS literature, including the issues of “aggregate” versus “emergent” group traits, “collective-fitness1” versus “collective-fitness2” and “MLS1” versus “MLS2”. In his commentary, Goodnight suggests this theoretical and conceptual synthesis is flawed in several respects. Here, I show this is incorrect, by: reiterating the theoretical and conceptual goals of my synthesis; clarifying that my genetical approach to traits is necessary for a proper analysis of the action of MLS independently of non-Darwinian factors; emphasising that the Price-Hamilton approach to MLS is consistent, useful and conceptually superior; and explaining the role of reproductive value in the study of natural selection in class-structured populations.
Citation
Gardner , A 2015 , ' More on the genetical theory of multilevel selection ' , Journal of Evolutionary Biology , vol. Early view . https://doi.org/10.1111/jeb.12684
Publication
Journal of Evolutionary Biology
Status
Peer reviewed
ISSN
1010-061XType
Journal item
Rights
© 2015 European Society For Evolutionary Biology. This work is made available online in accordance with the publisher’s policies. This is the author created, accepted version manuscript following peer review and may differ slightly from the final published version. The final published version of this work is available at https://dx.doi.org/10.1111/jeb.12684. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Self-Archiving.
Description
This study was supported by a Natural Environment Research Council Independent Research Fellowship (NE/K009524/1).Collections
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