1
Q
Define the naturalistic fallacy
A
- The mistaken belief that evolutionary explanations constitute moral justification
- Science is amoral—has no position on moral values
2
Q
Why is this concept important for understanding the implications of evolutionary explanations for human behavior?
A
• Important so that people don’t use scientific explanations to justify raping people; can help explain behaviors but doesn’t say whether they’re right or wrong.
3
Q
Using one of the following topics, discuss the potential for the misuse of evolutionary research in the formulation of public policy or cultural standards: female mate selection criteria; male risk taking; rape.
A
- Male risk taking: just because males are more likely to transgress does not justify if they lose control and kill someone.
- Rape: even though we have the want to reproduce, does not justify someone raping to overpower and reproduce.
- Female mate selection criteria: gold diggers.
