The Selfish Gene

We are made by our genes. We, animals, exist to preserve them and serve only as machines ensuring their survival. The world of the selfish gene is one of brutal competition, ruthless exploitation, and deception. But what about acts of altruism observed in nature: bees committing suicide when they sting an enemy to protect the hive, or birds risking their lives to warn the flock of an approaching hawk? Does this contradict the fundamental law of the selfishness of the gene? Not at all! Dawkins shows that the selfish gene is also a cunning gene. And he nurtures the hope that the species Homo sapiens - the only one on the entire globe - has the power to rebel against the intentions of the selfish gene. 
Translation verified against the anniversary English edition of 2006.