The Origins of Virtue is a 1996 popular science book by Matt Ridley, which has been recognised as a classic in its field.

The book, written from a sociobiological viewpoint, explores how genetics can be used to explain certain traits of human behaviour, in particular morality and altruism.

Ridley then examines the development of tribal mentality, group prejudice, the benefits of trade, and ineffective government regulation.

From this, Ridley argues that society operates best in groups of around 150 individuals, which he suggests is the level at which humans are capable of being sure about which members to cooperate with and which to exclude.

Although he avoids drawing any specific political points, Ridley ends his book by arguing for a smaller state operating on a more local level.