Sex and Evolution

Catalog description

This course introduces students to evolutionary theory and explores its relevance to the anthropological study of human sexuality and sex differences. In doing so, the course draws from in integrates findings from a wide array of disciplines, including evolutionary biology, genetics, neuroscience, endocrinology, behavioral ecology, anthropology, and psychology. After honing their evolutionary skills by investigating reproduction in other species, students will apply evolutionary principles to understanding human mating. Why do we prefer certain characteristics in a mate? How do these preferences differ between and within the sexes, and why? How do mating behaviors vary across cultures, and why are some behaviors more culturally variable than others? Other topics covered include infidelity, sexual jealousy, concealed ovulation, sexual conflict and rape, orgasm, parental care and abuse, and menopause. In understanding the evolutionary basis for a trait, it is helpful to understand its development. Thus, this course also covers the basics of sexual differentiation and investigates how variation in these processes might lead to variation in sexual orientation and gender identity. Students should take away not only a better understanding of human sexuality but also a way of thinking that helps them understand all living things.