Daly & Wilson chapter 2

Question 1

Definition of fitness

Answer 1

Reproductive success

Question 2

Species-typical behavior

Answer 2

Is fit behavior

Question 3

Wynne-Edwards theory

Answer 3

Natural selection can favor traits that benefit the group, even if they are costly to individual members

Question 4

David Lack argument

Answer 4

Breeding restraint isn’t real

Question 5

The Lack Effect

Answer 5

Animals often limit their reproduction to match the available resources, aiming to maximize the number of offspring that survive to adulthood

This means that they don’t just have as many offspring as possible but adjust their breeding based on environmental conditions to ensure that the surviving offspring have the best chance of thriving

Question 6

Inclusive fitness

Answer 6

Genetic success is not just about your own survival and reproduction but also includes the survival and reproduction of relatives