Epigenetic-based hormesis and age-dependent altruism: additions to the behavioural constellation of deprivation

Abstract

We support Pepper and Nettle’s (P&N’s) hypothesised adaptive responses to deprivation. However, we argue that adaptive responses to stress shift with age. Specifically, present-oriented behaviours are adaptive for young people (e.g., in terms of mating and reproduction) but costly for older people in deprived communities who would benefit from investing in grandchildren. Epigenetic mechanisms may be responsible for age-related tactical shifts.