TeachingBase

NetLogo: Evolution of ethnocentrism

This model simulates the biological evolution of ethnocentrism in a population made up of multiple ethnicities. Concepts of kin selection, frequency-dependent selection, and multilevel selection play a role in explaining observable outcomes. The models and lesson materials invite reflection about the evolutionary origins of human ethnocentric tendencies, their role in human history, their negative impacts in today’s globalized world, and ways to overcome these tendencies.

Teaching material type Computer Model, Full lesson plan, Payoff Matrix
Concepts Altruism, Cognitive Biases, Cooperation, Ethnocentrism, frequency-dependent selection, Kin selection, Multilevel Selection, Payoff matrix, Social cognition
Subject areas Biology, Civics, Computer Science, Ethics, History, Human Evolution, Math, Philosophy, Politics, Social Studies
Suitable Grade Levels 9-12

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