Mothers and Others
Sarah Blaffer Hrdy
2009
In this landmark work, anthropologist and primatologist Sarah Blaffer Hrdy explores how human cooperation — particularly in parenting — evolved. She argues that our species' survival depended not just on mothers, but on “alloparents”: grandparents, siblings, and community members who helped raise children. This shared caregiving fostered empathy, communication, and social intelligence — the roots of what makes us human.
Why It’s Included:
Hrdy’s work offers a powerful evolutionary case for responsive, community-based care. It supports natural parenting practices like breastfeeding, babywearing, and co-sleeping while challenging Western ideals of maternal isolation and independence. A vital read for anyone exploring the biocultural roots of parenting.
Who It’s For:
Best suited to those with an interest in anthropology, evolutionary biology, and parenting theory. Particularly valuable for educators, doulas, and advocates wanting to deepen their understanding of why human babies are so dependent — and what they need most.
“Women today are mothering in an environment alien to those even 100 years ago, let alone those thousands of years earlier. Yet maternal and infant bodies remain unchanged and their needs unaltered. So how has mothering become so much harder? Or has it?”
Further Reading:
The Evolved Nest – Darcia Narvaez
Our Babies, Ourselves – Meredith Small
