Evolutionary Psychology Chapter 3; Myers AP Psychology

Natural Selection The principle that, among the range of inherited trait variations, those that lead to increased reproduction and survival will most likely be passed on to succeeding generations. Natural Selection has been conducted in many species, naturally and purposeful.

The Friendly Fox Dmitry Belyaev (and successor, Lyudmila Trut) gathered 30 male and 100 female foxes to prove natural selection. They paired most docile together many times and in 40 years and 45,000 foxes later… had domesticated the fox.

Natural Selection in Humans Have humans experienced genetic mutation (a random error in gene replication that leads to a genetic change)? Do many humans fear heights and snakes because their ancestors did and they survived longer?

Proof? Evolutionary psychologists believe that humans have common logical traits across cultures because of natural selection. Examples: Love; Joy; Family; tastes (love for sweets and fatty foods)

Evolutionary Explanation of Human Sexuality: Page 110 “if two people really like each other, it’s all right for them to have sex even if they’ve known each other for a very short time.” How often do the genders think about sex?

Natural Selection & Mating Preferences Each of the genders are attracted to behaviors that increase the likelihood of sending one’s genes into the future. Most men across 37 different cultures judge younger women as more attractive. Women were attracted to strong, healthy looking men. Gender roles from ancient humanity?

Critiquing the Evolutionary Perspective Critics often dismiss evolutionary theories are judgments that work “backwards” to prove. For example, yes it is agreed that men and women differ in their desire and drive for sex, but both males and females desire the relatively same characteristics in a mate. Evolutionist extinguish critics by pointing out proven genetic mutations.