Unit 3 Flashcards
cross species perspective
searching for similar traits by comparing to other animals or species
cross-cultural perspective
Examines differences and similarities in human behavior across cultures, within the species
homologous
humans and other primates engage in similar behaviors
3 principles of sexual selection
1) intersexual
2) intrasexual
3) sexual coercion (extra added by smuts)
why compare humans to other species
- outlines the primitive and the derived
- all humans and non-human primates share some basic morphological or physiological similarities
- use other species as comparative models
- better understanding of behavior
5 sources of resistance to cross species analysis
1) opposition of the tenets of social biology (behavior shaped by genetics)
2) objection of the fact of human evolution
3) post modernism- rejection of scientific and evolutionary tradition w/in anthropology
4) beyond biology- rejection or misunderstand process of evolution/ we have advanced past the effects of evolution
5) political misapplication resistance to accept evolution based on political interpretations
proximate mechanisms
the immediate, physiological and environmental factors that explain how behavior or trait occurs. eg. hormones or social context can effect behavior
HINDERS direct COMPARISON BETWEEN SPECIES what creates behavior in another species may not in the next
sexual selection
specific level of selection that works to preserve traits specifically related to reproduction.
selective force behind evolution of secondary sex characteristics eg. blond hair
5 hypothesis associated with increased rates of sexual aggression in males
1) female social alliances female alliances are weak
2) when there is lack of support form birth family
3) male social network is strong
4) increased female vulnerability with hierarchical or power base
5) male resource control increases
