Mutual aid refers to the cooperative behavior observed among individuals of the same species, where they assist each other for mutual benefit. This concept is significant in the study of evolution, as it suggests that cooperation can enhance survival and reproductive success. By working together, individuals can better access resources, defend against predators, and raise offspring, leading to stronger social bonds and increased chances of survival. The idea of mutual aid is often associated with the work of Peter Kropotkin, a Russian anarchist and naturalist, who argued that cooperation is as vital as competition in the evolutionary process. His observations of various species, including wolves and primates, demonstrated that collaborative behaviors can lead to greater adaptability and resilience in changing environments.