Factors moderating the effect of hunger on human cooperation.

My proposed PhD will explore the effects of hunger on human cooperation and look at the factors moderating this effect. There is a large degree of variation between neighbourhoods in the frequency with which they engage in informal social cooperation, with this having a considerable impact on the wellbeing of such groups. Areas also differ on the availability of food, with children from deprived areas often going to school without breakfast. It is important to understand if there is a causal link between hunger and cooperation, as hunger may be a driving factor behind the low levels of cooperation found amongst certain groups. I will look at the roles of three factors in relation to hunger. Firstly, the type of resource available, and the importance of this aligning with current needs will be measured. As food is a primary reinforcer compared to the conditioned reinforcer of money, hungry individuals should see greater utility in food rewards. Secondly, the level of risk individuals are willing to take in order to maximise their earnings. Those who have skipped a meal should be willing to take greater risks in fulfilling energy requirements. Thirdly, the emphasis individuals place on reputation will be determined. Despite a desire to fulfil social obligations, I predict hungry individuals will place a greater importance on personal gains, at the expense of reputational concerns. This research will help clarify the role of hunger levels on cooperation levels, as well as having implications for addressing societal issues associated with chronic hunger