MQ4

Question 1

Define the naturalistic fallacy

Answer 1

• The mistaken belief that evolutionary explanations constitute moral justification
• Science is amoral—has no position on moral values

Question 2

Why is this concept important for understanding the implications of evolutionary explanations for human behavior?

Answer 2

• Important so that people don’t use scientific explanations to justify raping people; can help explain behaviors but doesn’t say whether they’re right or wrong.

Question 3

Using one of the following topics, discuss the potential for the misuse of evolutionary research in the formulation of public policy or cultural standards: female mate selection criteria; male risk taking; rape.

Answer 3

• Male risk taking: just because males are more likely to transgress does not justify if they lose control and kill someone.
• Rape: even though we have the want to reproduce, does not justify someone raping to overpower and reproduce.
• Female mate selection criteria: gold diggers.