Presentation

What is the primary focus of evolutionary psychology?

• Behavior driven by adaptations

• Studying traits from genetic mutations

• Identifying cultural norms

• Examining social learning

What is a key difficulty in demonstrating the adaptive value of certain traits?

• They are not observable

• They may have multiple functions

• They change too quickly

• They are always harmful

What does the term "Just So Story" metaphorically represent?

• Scientific theories with strong predictive power

• Simple, untested explanations for traits or phenomena

• Real-life evolutionary explanations

• Genetic theories for why animals are the way they are

What does "Panglossianism" refer to

• The study of non-adaptive traits

• The search for adaptive reasons for every trait

• The belief in genetic determinism

• The art of making frying pans shinier

According to Williams, which of the following is NOT one of the three criteria for determining if a trait is an adaptation?

• Reliability

• Economy

• Efficiency

• Relevance

Which concept refers to traits or behaviors that arise from adaptation rather than genetic mutations?

• Phenotypic plasticity

• Genetic drift

• Phylogenetic inertia

• Adaptive landscapes

In the text, an article written by Ramachandran was published in a journal to to expose the gullibility of some evolutionary psychologists. What was the article called?

• • Why do gentlemen prefer blondes?

• Why are brunettes attractive to men?

• How a blonde gets a gentleman

• Brunette or Hairnet? A Study on Hair Color and Attractiveness

Which of the following describes "adaptive landscapes"?

• The geographic area where organisms live

• The physical environment influencing genetic mutations

• The physical environment affecting adaptations

• Features may appear suboptimal compared to what they could be

What is a common challenge in applying adaptive thinking?

• It only works with simple traits

• It assumes all traits must be adaptive, possibly overlooking non-adaptive traits

• It cannot always explain complex traits

• It always fits well with observed evidence

What is "reverse engineering" in the context of evolutionary biology?

• Analyzing historical evidence to determine adaptive traits

• Building new traits based on existing ones

• Inferring problems from observed solutions to traits

• Studying genetic changes over time