Mia Ramos

Block-2

3C Genetics and Evolution: Unit Questions

1. What are genes, and how do behavior geneticists explain our individual differences?
Genes are segments of DNA, which contain the code for certain traits within a person.
They can be expressed, meaning active, or inactive, meaning they cannot be seen even though
it is present. Genes can be triggered by environmental influences.
2. What is heritability, and how does it relate to individuals and groups?
Heritability is the variation among individuals due to their different genes. These
differences in traits can only be used to describe individuals, not entire groups. Differences
between individuals can also be due to environmental influences because of adaptation.
3. What is the promise of molecular genetics research?
Molecular genetics focuses on specific functions and structures of genes and how it
influences behavior. This subfield of biology is used to identify any mutations in genes that may
be harmful or cause disorders.
4. How do evolutionary psychologists use natural selection to explain behavior tendencies?
Natural selection is the principle which ensures that certain genetic traits are the cause
of survival for certain species. It is also known as the "survival of the fittest" principle. Mutations
occur to help a species adapt to its environment. Evolutionary psychologists use this principle to
focus on the evolution of human behavior.
5. How might an evolutionary psychologist explain gender differences in sexuality and mating
preferences?
Men tend to desire sexual activity more than women. Their attraction comes from their
desire for women who are more youthful and appear fertile. Women, on the other hand, desire a
relational approach, causing them to choose their mates more carefully. The sexual drive from
men increases their chances of spreading their genes. The preference of women's careful
choosing increases the chance for survival for both themselves and their children because they
hope for someone willing for long-term investment in caring for their offspring.
6. What are the key criticisms of evolutionary psychology?
Evolutionary psychology is often criticized for several reasons. For one, it often begins
with the effect and proposes an explanation by working backwards. The social consequence is
that it gives little emphasis to social influence. Having testable predictions based on evolutionary
principles and finding explanations is valuable to overcoming predispositions.