Unlike other animals that exhibit simpler and less sophisticated emotions, guilt is a behavior that is thought to be unique to the group of great apes.
Guilt-feeling behavior evolved in our ancestors and provided them with an advantage, allowing them to integrate into large social networks. And they realized that living as individuals hampered their survival because they were far weaker than the beasts of the forest and the environmental conditions.
The sense of guilt among human ancestors helped them to cooperate and integrate into society, Because guilt can translate into feelings of remorse and regret when making mistakes in dealing with others, it allows individuals to learn from those mistakes and avoid them in the future.
Furthermore, feelings of guilt can help people regulate their social behavior and avoid behaviors that are harmful to others and society in general, increasing their chances of survival and prosperity.
Biologically and neurologically, it is believed that a person who feels intense guilt is thought to be more sensitive to other people's feelings and pain.