ABSTRACT
Williamson and the IEA seem to draw quite different, if not opposite conclusions from evolutionary theory. Whereas Williamson argues that EP supports his view that individual human beings are opportunistic, proponents of the IEA maintain that dispositions to engage in unconditional reciprocal and trustworthy behaviour are part of the encompassing preference profiles of individuals. And while Williamson argues that his assumption that individuals are boundedly rational (yet capable of farsighted contracting) is sustained, the IEA sticks to the assumption that individuals can and do act fully rationally on the basis of their preference profiles. Who is right? Who is closer to what evolutionary theory in general, and EP in particular have to say about these issues, Williamson or proponents of the IEA? Let us not rush to overhasty answers, but have a closer look at EP first.
