To the extent that "cruel" and "less consciousness" mean that one (actually, a group, not individuals) is prepared to use the best techniques available to survive, without arbitrary restrictions due to superstition or other cultural handicaps, this is indeed survival of the fittest.



"Noble intentions are a poor excuse for
stupid action. Man is the only species that
calls some suicidal actions “noble.� The rest
of creation knows better."
— Garrett Hardin