THE SOCIAL CONQUEST OF EARTH

Listeners who are wondering about the meaning of human existence—and who isn’t?—are provided with some unsettling answers in this production. We exist, according to Wilson, because we have miraculously made it through a Darwinian maze, managing along the way to temper our selfish individual survival traits with altruism—which is necessary for group success. But where did this altruism originate? Wilson discredits a popular scientific theory to advance a new explanation for our “virtuous” behavior. There’s a lot to ponder here—science, religion, and culture—and Jonathan Hogan’s narration provides clarity, rhythm, and empathy for the author’s mission. But even with this wonderful combination of narration and text, listeners may also long for the print version in order to revisit the many theoretical gems of wisdom. R.W.S. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2012]