Kin selection is a natural process that explains how certain behaviors can evolve to help relatives survive and reproduce. This concept suggests that individuals are more likely to assist those who share their genes, increasing the chances of passing on similar traits. For example, a squirrel might warn its family members about a nearby predator, even if it puts itself at risk.
This behavior benefits the squirrel's relatives, ensuring that their shared genes continue in future generations. By helping family members, individuals can indirectly contribute to their own genetic success, demonstrating that cooperation among relatives can be a powerful force in evolution.