Aggression: Evolution and aggression Flashcards
3.1.4 The role of evolution and natural selection to explain human behaviour, including aggression.
Define evolution.
The changes in inherited characteristics in a biological population over successive generations.
Define natural selection?
The major processes that explain evolution. Inherited traits enhance an animals reproductive and survival success so their genes are passed to the next generation.
Define sexual selection
An evolutionary explanation of partner preference. Attitudes that increase reproductive success are passed on and may become exaggerated.
What is the supporting evidence of the evolutionary theory?
Manson and Wringham
Explains why males are more aggressive than females.
Females chimpanzees who are cooperative are likely to be naturally selected because cooperation helps them protect themselves and their offspring.
Male chimpanzees who are aggressive are likely to be naturally selected because they can protect their partners and their offspring.
What is the opposing evidence of the evolutionary theory?
Cannot be tested directly!
Evolution can only be tested on animals, which gives the results low generalisability as humans are more complex.
What is the application of the Evolutionary theory?
If we have evolved to be aggressive, then aggression is part of our nature and cannot be removed. By accepting this we can provide education to provide skills in controlling aggression. For example, breathing techniques when angry.
What is a different theory from evolutionary theory?
- Psychodynamic
- Brain structure
- Hormones
Why would aggression be useful in evolution?
-Guarding your partner
-Guarding your offspring
Why would evolution be linked to aggression?
Characteristics that aid survival are passed on, this can include aggression and the ability to fight to stay alive.
Why would sexual selection be linked to aggression?
Female partners may be attracted to aggressive characteristics as they are able to defend themselves and their offspring. Meaning, the more aggressive males are more likely to be mated with and pass their genes on.
Why would natural selection be linked to aggression?
‘Survival of the fittest’, genes that aid survival are passed on and those without survival genes die.
