Explore the evolutionary origins of altruistic cooperation in this thought-provoking lecture by Professor Samuel Bowles of the Santa Fe Institute. Delve into the puzzling nature of human cooperation that has challenged biologists and economists since Darwin's time. Examine archaeological, genetic, and climatic evidence about the living conditions of our distant ancestors to understand why conventional explanations for human cooperation fall short. Gain insights into the complex interplay between human nature, social behavior, and evolutionary processes that shape our species' unique capacity for altruism and collaboration.