The evolution of deception

By MiNDFOOD

The evolution of deception
Are deceiving and being deceived just par for the course in being human?

As humans, our survival is intricately tied to our ability to coordinate and collaborate with others. Whether it’s evident in our daily interactions or highlighted in survival reality TV shows, it’s clear that we rely on each other in various aspects of our lives, from work to home to times of need. Despite this fundamental aspect of our existence, we often overlook the importance of relationships in our busy lives.

Our evolution as a species has ingrained in us the need to work together to survive. From hunting and gathering in ancient times to modern-day teamwork in complex societies, our reliance on each other is undeniable. It’s easy to take for granted the support and assistance we receive from others, but it’s crucial to recognise the significance of these relationships in our overall well-being.

Cooperation vs. exploitation

Cooperating involves assessment and choice. When and why should we cooperate? When it suits us? As a selfless act? For the betterment of the team? Because of the way we are asked? Navigating these choices brings forth questions of our morality and our willingness to put faith in others.

“Cooperation makes it possible for some individuals to cheat, prospering off the cooperative efforts of others. Cooperate too readily and you might get taken for a ride. Cooperate only grudgingly and you don’t reap the benefits of working together.”

Rob Brooks, Professor of Evolutionary Ecology and Director of the Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, University of NSW, Australia.

Lying

Evolutionary biologists and sociologists spend their careers attempting to understand the complexity of  human cooperation and the behaviour that has led us develop the societies we live in.  In a study published by The Royal Society, researchers have studied the tactics behind deception. Understanding how humans deceive, where there is gain to be had by tricking others into cooperation, contributing to how we all operate.

What researchers have confirmed is that ‘tactical deception’, where one person misrepresents information to another, is a common tactic that allows a person to mask their intentions or past behaviour in order to get what they want, essentially eliciting cooperation. This is especially obvious in partnerships where there is an imperative to cooperate or lose all. To some degree we all do this, recount stories or information in a way that colours how others understand the information. When does it become an outright lie? The research is noncommittal in pinning it down but suggests the truth is in assessing actions over time.

Coercion

There are numerous ways to coerce people into giving you what you want, these range from outright threats, duress and abuse to more subtle persuasion. To what degree would you waiver if its not in your favour to do so? What is considered ethical in the efforts of law enforcement, for example, to draw information form suspects? These questions are perpetually asked as we become societies committed to human rights.

 

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