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Chapter 2

Chapter 2: Evolution and Genetics

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Mating Preferences

Evolutionary theorists suggest that humans have a tendency toward polygyny, and some evidence indeed suggests that men express a desire for a greater number of sexual partners than women do. But, not surprisingly, this evolutionary account is controversial, for some critics argue that sexual attributes reflect cultural values rather than biological programming.

In this tutorial you are asked to complete a brief questionnaire that is based on classic research by David Buss and that offers insight into how data that inform the scientific debate about mating preferences are collected. The tutorial then discusses these data in terms of evolution and cultural values.

Sensation Seeking

For many years, psychologists believed that organisms are motivated to reduce their degree of arousal, or drive state. Thus, for example, one eats to reduce hunger, drinks to reduce thirst, sleeps to reduce the unpleasant state we call fatigue, and so on.

However, this theoretical position does not fit with the facts, simply because, in many circumstances, organisms seek out arousal. People do, after all, enjoy riding roller coasters, watching an exciting sports event, or even participating in an extreme sport.

Yet while virtually everyone seems to seek some degree of arousal, people certainly differ in how much arousal they want. Some people are thrill seekers who crave the excitement of white-water kayaking and fast downhill skiing, while others prefer the serenity of canoeing on a peaceful lake or snow-shoeing through a silent wood.

Which type of person are you? The usual means of measuring this is the Sensation Seeking Scale, described in the text, developed by Marvin Zuckerman. In this activity, you’ll be able to take Zuckerman’s test and find out how you score, relative to others your age.

For each of the following 40 questions select the choice, A or B, that best describes your likes or the way you feel. If you don't like either choice, choose the one that you dislike the least.

It is important to you respond to all items, and so don’t leave any items blank. There are no right or wrong answers. The test only assesses your likes and feelings, so be honest in your responses.

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