SKU: 17428960597

Moral Origins: The Evolution of Virtue, Altruism, and Shame

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Moral Origins: The Evolution of Virtue, Altruism, and ShameFrom the age of Darwin to the present day, biologists have been grappling with the origins of our moral sense. Why, if the human instinct to survive and reproduce is "selfish," do people engage in self sacrifice, and even develop ideas like virtue and shame to justify that altruism? Many theories have been put forth, some emphasizing the role of nepotism, others emphasizing the advantages of reciprocation or group selection effects. But evolutionary

From the age of Darwin to the present day, biologists have been grappling with the origins of our moral sense. Why, if the human instinct to survive and reproduce is "selfish," do people engage in self-sacrifice, and even develop ideas like virtue and shame to justify that altruism? Many theories have been put forth, some emphasizing the role of nepotism, others emphasizing the advantages of reciprocation or group selection effects. But evolutionary anthropologist Christopher Boehm finds existing explanations lacking, and in Moral Origins, he offers an elegant new theory. Tracing the development of altruism and group social control over 6 million years, Boehm argues that our moral sense is a sophisticated defense mechanism that enables individuals to survive and thrive in groups. One of the biggest risks of group living is the possibility of being punished for our misdeeds by those around us. Bullies, thieves, free-riders, and especially psychopaths -- those who make it difficult for others to go about their lives -- are the most likely to suffer this fate. Getting by requires getting along, and this social type of selection, Boehm shows, singles out altruists for survival. This selection pressure has been unique in shaping human nature, and it bred the first stirrings of conscience in the human species. Ultimately, it led to the fully developed sense of virtue and shame that we know today.A groundbreaking exploration of the evolution of human generosity and cooperation, Moral Origins offers profound insight into humanity's moral past -- and how it might shape our moral future.

Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: Basic Books
Published: 05/01/2012
ISBN: 9780465020485
Pages: 432
Weight: 1.45lbs
Size: 9.30h x 6.40w x 1.40d

Review Citations: Publishers Weekly 02/20/2012 pg. 156
Kirkus Reviews 03/01/2012
Booklist 04/15/2012 pg. 4
Library Journal 05/01/2012 pg. 89
Choice 10/01/2012
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SKU: 17428960597

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Los Angeles, US
★★★★★ 2
slips off bed during the night
Size: Twin/Twin XL(68"x88"), Color: White
I never expected this? It will not stay on bed. Slips off during the night. I am a pretty good sleeper. Do not toss and turn that much. I was amazed that it fell off during the night !!! Did anyone else have this problem?
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Reviewed in the United States on May 19, 2026
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Sabrina
Birmingham, US
★★★★★ 5
Keeps you cool without being cold!
Size: Full/Queen(88"x88"), Color: White
Such a great comforter! The material is cooling but not cold—it’s the perfect balance. The fabric is super soft and feels really nice against the skin. The only downside is that it tends to slide off the bed easily, especially if paired with the Bedsure cooling fitted sheet since both are very smooth and slippery.
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Reviewed in the United States on August 24, 2025
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Kerissa
New York, US
★★★★★ 5
Perfect for anyone that gets too hot!
Size: Full/Queen(88"x88"), Color: Gray
I’ve purchased two of these now. One for me and one for my son. It really does stay cool!! It’s lightweight and comfortable. Highly recommend if you are a hot sleeper. My son is and he will be sitting playing games or watching tv and actually be able to have a blanket covering him and not cook himself. They have been washed and have held up just fine. Bedsure makes great products in general. My last few sheet/comforter sets have been from them. Give it a try.
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Reviewed in the United States on September 4, 2025
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Omaha, US
★★★★★ 5
Get your comfy on
Color: Black, Size: King, Color: Black, Size: King
This Bedsure King Mattress Topper - Viscose Made from Bamboo: This ultra-soft, thick, and fluffy pillow top mattress pad is made from bamboo and is 21 inches deep with a breathable, moisture-wicking design. It’s available in black and measures 78x80 inches. While it’s a great choice, it does take a bit of time to be able to use when you first receive it. First, you need to remove the packaging and then put it in the dryer on low fluff for 20 minutes. After that, you should lay it across your bed for 24 hours to allow it to expand fully. So, plan on not being able to use it for 2 days. However, following these instructions will ensure that you get the best ultra-soft thickness and the perfect fit for your bed, plus you’ll feel comfortable when you’re ready to sleep on it. This Bedsure King Mattress Topper is incredibly comfortable. You’ll have the best nights’ sleep of your life with it. The quality of this topper is exceptional. I washed it, dried it, and it still came out perfect. There were no clumps or bunching. It laid out perfectly on our king bed mattress. This thing feels amazing. I didn’t want to get out of bed. Being a coffee addict, I didn’t mind not having it first thing in the morning because it’s so soft. My husband even approved of this topper. I like how both of lying on it, I don’t feel him moving around. This Bedsure King Mattress Topper is not too soft that you sink in. It’s just right. It’s like a soft hug on your body, but not wrapped around you. After a few days of sleep on it, my back didn’t hurt. I was surprised. I also like how this topper helps protect and keep your mattress from wearing out quickly. It provides long-lasting stability to your mattress. This Bedsure King Mattress Topper is the perfect thickness. I love how my sheets still fit over this and my mattress with no problems. The topper stays put on my mattress also. I like the added elastic band for support keeping it in mattress. We just bought a new mattress and I wanted a topper to add more comfort so this was a perfect addition. Ive bought other Bedsure items for our condo, we rent out and guests always like those toppers. This the first time getting a single topper with no memory foam added separately. I have to say I like the added comfort this Bedsure King Mattress Topper - Viscose Made from Bamboo Ultra Soft Thick Fluffy Pillow Top Mattress Pad with 21 Inch Deep Pocket, Breathable, Moisture Wicking, Black, 78x80 Inch adds to our mattress top. It’s just the right added comfort. You can’t see the wording Bedsure through sheets either. I get do my stretches in bed, yoga and still able to do with no problems. The price is spot on for a nice quality mattress pad. Definitely highly recommend getting this for your mattress. You will be glad you did. It will last a long time.
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Reviewed in the United States on May 19, 2026
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JANELV
West Palm Beach, US
★★★★★ 5
A better topper from a company I trust
Color: Black, Size: Twin
I have a memory foam daybed that has seen better days. The top layer has started to shift from regular use, and I wanted something that would help hold it together. The Bedsure Twin Mattress Topper does exactly that and made a huge difference right away. This is a high quality, well constructed mattress pad. It fits securely over an extra thick mattress and stays in place. The corner bands under deep pockets are strong and keep everything aligned without slipping. The measurements are accurate. There are instructions to dry it, then leave it out to expand. There was no weird smell. What you see is exactly what you get, in a good way. The cushioning is even and comfortable, and the fabric feels thick and smooth. It adds structure while still improving comfort. It has a more premium look and function than expected, similar to what you would find in a Five-Star hotel. It feels expensive. I also appreciate that the color is not white. It looks cleaner over time and feels like a more practical choice. I have used several Bedsure products, and the quality has been consistent. I also like that it is a woman founded and owned brand, and they continue to improve their products.
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Reviewed in the United States on May 27, 2026

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