collaboration

With the population reaching some sort of a mark, rather like the waters reaching a danger mark in a dam, people's power seems to be on the rise. Now this is good if it works well, but it could easily go the other way-- like when mobs beat people up without knowing why.
But whatever be the aim, when people collaborate, they achieve more.
This is very difficult to internalise.
I am sure I would not share in many situations.
But if I look at it objectively, I can see that the future is in collaboration- whether science (from Abi's post) or in overthrowing corrupt governments. But this sharing is very very tough and the phenomenon is now in its infancy.
Is it a paradox of human nature that when there is more of us to divide resources between, we are seeing more collaborative movements, or is it a sign of maturing civilisation that sees the benefits of sharing? Or is it just exigency that brings people together temporarily?