Jim dives into the water to help his drowning sister; Ivan dives into the water to help a total stranger because he wanted to impress his new girlfriend and is a trained lifeguard. Jim's motive to help is best explained by __________, while Ivan's motive to help is best explained by __________.
A) evolutionary theory; kin selection
B) evolutionary theory; social exchange theory
C) social exchange theory; empathy-altruism hypothesis
D) kin selection; empathy-altruism hypothesis

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Jim's motive to help is best explained by evolutionary theory, as he is helping a close genetic relative (his sister), which can be seen as an instinctual behavior to preserve genetic material. Ivan's motive, on the other hand, is best explained by social exchange theory, as he is motivated by the potential benefits of impressing his girlfriend and possibly reinforcing his self-image as a skilled lifeguard, rather than by a direct genetic or empathetic connection to the stranger.

Jim Dives into the Water to Help His Drowning Sister;