Evolution

Question 1

what is evolutionary psychology?

Answer 1

attempts to explain psychological traits or behaviors as adaptations
genetically passed behaviors: survive, procreate, healthy offspring

Question 2

what is the evolutionary explanation and evidence of disgust?

Answer 2

1. stronger when facing disease - salient stimuli
2. similar across cultures
3. more pronounced in women (caretakers)
4. declines with age
5. stronger in contact with strangers

Question 3

how are emotions explained by evolution?

Answer 3

emotions are reactions that involve experiential, behavioral, and psychological elements, by which an individual attempts to deal with a personally relevant event.

Question 4

STUDY ON EVOLUTION

Answer 4

Curtis et al, 2004
aim: to see if MHC genes influence attraction through the sense of smell
- online survey - around 40.000 responses.
- 7 images (salient stimuli/ wo)
- rated in disgust
- disgust evolved as a protection of disease