survival instinct

Noun

survival instinct (plural survival instincts)

1. Any of various unlearned, unthinking responses that serve to preserve one's life or make it difficult to risk one's life.
   • The instinct most likely to intrude on the survival instinct is the instinct of sex, which stands in the same relation to the preservation of the race as does the survival instinct to the preservation of the individual.1911, Christian Archibald Herter, Biological Aspects of Human Problems, page 99
   • The "every man for himself" attitude, for example, is typical of this type of basic instinct. It is usually triggered by a state of panic. Although this selfish survival instinct may seem abhorrent in action, it is nevertheless a natural aspect of human behavior.1989, Robb Huff, Michael B. Farley, Sea Survival: The Boatman's Emergency Manual, page 175
2. (broadly) The will to live and thrive.
   • The Cicadas' must be one of the most chillingly vivid of all of Elizabeth's narratives of sexual predatoriness, emotional vulnerability, and the mean-spirited but triumphant survival instinct that forms the jungle of human struggle.1990, Thomas W. Shapcott, Biting the Bullet: A Literary Memoir, page 246
   • The better approach is to show them that their survival instinct is tied to cooperation, not turf.2000, David L. Goetsch, Stanley Davis, Quality Management, page 430