1. Overview and Major Issues

Question 1

What is meant by “monism”?

a. The idea that all forms of life evolved from a single ancestor
b. The idea that conscious and unconscious motivations combine to produce behavior
c. The idea that the mind is made of the same substance as the rest of the universe
d. The idea that the mind is one type of substance as matter is another

Answer 1

c. The idea that the mind is made of the same substance as the rest of the universe

Question 2

Of the following, which one is an example of an evolutionary explanation (as opposed to a functional explanation)?

a. People evolved a fear of snakes because many snakes are dangerous.
b. Humans have a (tiny) tailbone because our ancient monkey-like ancestors had a tail.
c. People evolved an ability to recognize faces because that ability is essential for cooperative social behaviors.
d. People evolved a tendency to form long-term male–female bonds because human infants benefit from the help of two parents during their long period of dependence.

Answer 2

Humans have a (tiny) tailbone because our ancient monkey-like ancestors had a tail.

Question 3

3. Of the following, which is a reason favoring the use of animals in biological psychology research aimed at solving human problems?
   a. Nonhuman animals engage in all the same behaviors as humans.
   b. One human differs from another, but nonhumans are nearly the same as one another.
   c. The nervous system of nonhuman animals resembles that of humans in many ways.

Answer 3

c.The nervous system of nonhuman animals resembles that of humans in many ways.

Question 4

What does a “minimalist” favor with regard to animal research?

a. All research should have a minimum of at least 10 animals per group.
b. A minimum of three people should review each research proposal.
c. Interference with animal research should be held to a minimum.
d. Animal research is permissible but should be held to a minimum.

Answer 4

d.Animal research is permissible but should be held to a minimum.