This article discusses 3 ways in which adaptive developmental mechanisms may produce maladaptive outcomes. First, natural selection may favor risky strategies that enhance fitness on average but which have detrimental consequences for a subset of individuals. Second, mismatch may result when organisms experience environmental change during…

This lesson is designed to teach students that behavior is a trait shaped by both genes and the environment. Students will read a scientific paper, discuss and generate predictions based on the ideas and data therein, and model the relationships between genes, the environment, and behavior. The lesson is targeted to meet the educational goals of…

The study of origin and evolution of man gives new perspective for understanding his behavior. Physical behaviors such as walking and throwing are results of biological evolution which has not kept pace with sociocultural evolution. Irrational decisions by man in social, cultural, and political fields are results of this brain activity. (PS)

Direct observations of animal behaviors can provide clues to understanding human behavior. By such observations of animals close to man, certain behavior patterns have been established. Man's behavior in social and cultural fields is an adaptation of these behavior patterns. (PS)

Focuses on the sigmoid growth curve as a biological principle that can be applied to the study of human behavior. (CS)

The author defends statements in his book, "Sociology: The New Synthesis" against a critique by the Sociology Study Group of Science for the People. (LS)

Examines innate behavioral patterns in animals and discusses how the results of ethological research can contribute to a better understanding of man, his manners, values, and cultural evolution. (JR)

Provides an exercise designed to give students an appreciation for the genetic basis of behavior. Employs the phenomenon of glucose aversion as an example of evolution by mutation and accelerated natural selection, thereby revealing one of the ways in which organisms adapt to human interference. (DDR)

Introduces a general theory of sociobiology which a biology teacher would find useful as a basis for course development. (LS)

This book is one in a series designed to provide access to a wide range of selected articles from magazines, newspapers, and journals. This volume contains 46 articles by scientists, educators, researchers, and writers providing effective and useful perspectives on today's important topics in the study of biology. Articles included in this guide…