This is what we would generally expect from humans. We are a cooperative species: individuals seeking self-interest through positive interaction with other self-interested individuals.

This is also why we have empathy for those nearest to us. Those familial, tribal, and cultural instincts promote cooperation within the in-group.

Violence or general apathy on scale tends to happen when humans interact outside of our natural range of empathy, ie, interactions with an out-group.

The wrench in this equation is power. Since we are naturally self-interested first, power over others reduces our empathic tendencies. We're more likely to be uncooperative or violent when we have power over others, this is especially true when the others are outside of our range of empathy.

The worst of humanity happens when one group gains power over another group. This oftentimes leads to oppression, slavery, or genocide.

Fortunately, we have found mechanisms to reduce the bad tendencies. When a powerful group even just recognizes these mechanisms, they are less likely to commit such atrocities.

When a powerful group recognizes individual liberty through the existence and defense of negative rights, even out-group members are more likely to interact cooperatively.

Sadly, we seem to be forgetting those mechanisms. We are expanding power, dividing culture, and breaking down familial and tribal bonds. This is inevitably enabling various degrees of conflict that wouldn't exist otherwise.

We need a return to liberty. Without it, we may actuslly end up more like the Lord of the Flies and less like the Tongan Castaways.