L2 - Human Behavioral Ecology Flashcards
1
Q
The Modern Synthesis
A
- Merges Darwinian evolution with Mendelian genetics for a unified theory of evolution
- Foundation of population genetics
2
Q
Tinbergen’s Four Questions
A
- Development
- Mechanism
- Evolutionary History
- Adaptive Function
3
Q
Proximate View
A
- how an individual organism’s structures work
- ontogeny (development): developmental changes in individuals, from DNA to their current form
- mechanism (causation): mechanistic explanations for how an organism’s structures work
4
Q
Ultimate View
A
- why a species evolved the structures (adaptations) it has
- phylogeny (evolution): history of evolution of sequential changes in species over generations
- function (adaptation): species trait that solves reproductive/survival problem in current environment
5
Q
Dynamic vs static view
A
- Dynamic: explantations in terms of a historical sequence
- Static: explanation of current form
6
Q
Sociobiology: The New Synthesis
A
- compilation of trailblazing work by Hamilton, Trivers, others
- claimed universal human nature that could be studied and that biology would eventually unite social sciences
- “Do humans behave adaptively?”
7
Q
Phenotypic Plasticity
A
- ability to modify phenotype to suit local environment
- leads to adaptation independent of genetic differences
8
Q
Ecological Contingency
A
HBE states that human diversity comes from ecological variation in fitness consequences of alternative behaviors
9
Q
Socioecology
A
any aspect of local physical or social environment that modifies costs and benefits of action
10
Q
The Phenotypic Gambit
A
- how a trait is inherited (socially or genetically) does not constrain its adaptive function
- maladaptive behavior is not predicted by pure HBE models
11
Q
Optimality Modeling
A
- HBE derives testable hypotheses that are designed to answer simple questions
- models predict costs and benefits of behavioral strategies
- considers what socioecological/individual factors will influence optimal outcome
- not intended to be perfect representations of reality - designed to reveal general principles
12
Q
The Polygyny Threshold Model
A
predicts females choose mating systems based on resources controlled by males
