Biological: Evolution

Question 1

Define evolution?

Answer 1

The changes in inherited characteristics in a biological population over successive generations.

Question 2

Define natural selection?

Answer 2

The major processes that explain evolution. Inherited traits enhance an animals reproductive success so their genes are passed to the next generation.

Question 3

Define sexual selection

Answer 3

An evolutionary explanation of partner preference. Attitudes that increase reproductive success are passed on and may become exaggerated.

Question 4

S of the evolutionary theory?

Answer 4

A strength is the evolutionary theory that explain why males are more aggressive than females. Females who are cooperative are likely to be naturally selected because cooperation helps them protect themselves= more validity. Manson and wringham chimpanzee study.

Question 5

What is the O of the evolutionary theory?

Answer 5

A weakness is that any evolutionary explanation cannot be tested directly meaning the research is correlational so it can never rules out the effect of other variables on aggressive behaviour reducing validity

Question 6

What is the A of Evolutionary theory?

Answer 6

Helps us to understand human relationships as it predicts that we should choose partners who enhance our reproductive success. Buss found that across 33 countries males preferred more attractive younger females (more likely to be fertile) . Women prefer older ambitious men so their children are supported.

Question 7

What is the D for evolutionary theory?

Answer 7

Behaviourism
Behaviourists believe we learn our behaviour from the environment and socialisation. Freud psychodynamic theory.

Question 8

Why would aggression be useful in evolution?

Answer 8

-Guarding your partner
-Guarding your offspring