War is, scientists are discovering, not inevitable based on primate social behavior and aggression. Interestingly, research suggests that aggression may cause elevated levels of testosterone, not the other way around. Moreover, aggression is hard-wired and inevitable but so too are traits related to cooperation and conflict resolution. Research among primate populations shows the remarkable capacity for primates to act and live peacefully with each other. However, not all environmental conditions are conducive to peace. Note researchers, competition for resources is one of the main factors that engenders warfare and aggression. Interdependence is another key factor that can cause peace. When neighboring bands of primates interact with, socialize with, and cooperate with each other they tend to be more peaceful. The same is true for human societies.

Research on primates can easily be applied to the human world. In regions of the globe besieged by inequality, including parts of the United States, neighbors can become violent and mistrustful of one another. Competition for resources and the lack of cooperation ensures violence. When communities...

War is not, as Horgan and others have concluded, inevitable. With equal access to resources and social norms that encourage equity, warfare is unlikely. Finally, research reveals the importance of gender equality in creating peace. When females are empowered, societies are far less likely to engage in warfare. Not only does gender equity parallel broader social equality but also, gender equity leads to lower birthrates and less competition for resources and more social stability.
References

Horgan, John. Has Science Found a Way to End All Wars? Discover. March 13, 2008. Retrieved Oct 8, 2008 from http://discovermagazine.com/2008/apr/13-science-says-war-is-over-now/article_view-b_start:int=3&-C=

Wade, Nicholas. Scientist Finds the Beginnings of Morality in Primate Behavior. New York Times. March 20, 2007. Retrieved Oct 7, 2008 from http://www.nytimes.com/2007/03/20/science/20moral.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&sq=primates&st=cse&scp=4