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551-0651-00L 2 Credits MSC D-HEST , D-BIOL
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Cooperation and conflict

Kooperation und Konkurrenz

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Barbara König
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:05:51

Abstract

Introduction to animal behaviour from an evolutionary perspective with an emphasis on the study of social behaviour. Analyses of the theroretical background, proximate mechanisms and ultimate function of group living, altruism, mutualism and the resolution of conflicts in animals, including humans.

Objective

Within animal societies individuals often cooperate, despite a variety of evolutionary conflicts of interest (due to individuals not being genetically identical). Students should gain an understanding of the ultimate and proximate factors that cause, modify, structure and stabilize social interactions.

Content

Direct/indirect/kin selection, direct/indirect/inclusive fitness, altruism, selfishness, spite, mutualism, reciprocity, eusociality, learning, communication, cognition, kin recognition, reproductive skew, brood care, conflicts among relatives, mating systems, alternative strategies, sexual selection, human sociobiology

Resources

Lecture Notes

none

Literature

1) Alcock, J (2005) Animal Behavior. An Evolutionary Approach. 8th edition. Sinauer Associates, Sunderland, Massachusetts. 2) Bradbury, JW & Vehrencamp, SL (1998) Principles of Animal Communication. Sinauer, Sunderland Massachusetts. 3) Dugatkin, LA (ed.) (2001) Model Systems in Behavioral Ecology: Integrating Conceptual, Theoretical, and Empirical Approaches. Princeton University Press, Princeton NJ. 4) Gadagkar, R (1998) Survival Strategies. Cooperation and Conflict in Animal Societies. Harvard University Press, Harvard. 5) Krebs, JR & Davies, NB (1997) Behavioural Ecology. An Evolutionary Approach. 4th edition. Blackwell Scientific Publications, Oxford.

General Information

Language
German
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Kooperation und Konkurrenz
**Kurs an der UNI Zürich**
  • Mon 10:15-12:00 (Y16 G 15)
2 h weekly

Offered In