In anthropology, an altruistic act refers to behavior in which an individual helps another at a cost to themselves, without immediate or guaranteed personal gain. It is studied across human societies and primate groups as a key element of cooperation, kinship, and social bonding.

🌍 Definition

• Altruism: Selfless concern for the well-being of others.
• Altruistic Act: Any action where one individual provides aid, resources, or protection to another, even at personal risk or expense.
• Contrast:
  • Egoistic act: Benefits the self directly.
  • Altruistic act: Benefits another, sometimes reducing the actor’s own resources or safety.

🔑 Anthropological Contexts

• Kinship Theory:
  • Altruism often directed toward relatives, explained by inclusive fitness—helping kin increases survival of shared genes.
• Reciprocity:
  • Altruistic acts may be part of reciprocal altruism, where help is expected to be returned later.
• Primatology:
  • Grooming, food sharing, and coalition support among chimpanzees and macaques are examples of altruistic acts.
• Human Societies:
  • Acts of charity, communal labor, and risk-taking in warfare or hunting are anthropologically studied as altruism.
• Ritual & Symbolism:
  • Altruistic acts often carry symbolic weight—gift-giving, sacrifice, or ritual offerings reinforce social bonds.

📚 Importance in Anthropology

• Social Cohesion: Altruism strengthens group solidarity and trust.
• Evolutionary Insight: Shows how cooperation evolved alongside competition in human and primate societies.
• Cultural Variation: Different societies valorize altruism in unique ways—through kinship obligations, religious charity, or communal work.
• Conflict Resolution: Altruistic acts can repair relationships and reduce tension.

In short: An altruistic act in anthropology is a selfless behavior that benefits others at personal cost, illuminating how cooperation, kinship, and cultural values shape human and primate societies.