Transcript human reproduction biology 269

Previous lectures: discussed how anatomy & physiology of the
human reproductive system and how human sexual response are
evolutionarily adapted for specific reproductive strategies.
Human reproductive behaviors are also the product of adaptation
to maximize the probablility of reproductive success.
Adapted to:
- Attract and connect with potential mates
- Select healthy mates carrying most “desirable” traits
- Reproduce during our strongest and healthiest years
- Reproduce as frequently as possible
- Maximize probability that each intercourse will result in fertilization
- Maximize probability that both mother & young will survive pregnancy
- Maximize probability that offspring will reach maturity and reproduce
While much human reproductive behavior is the product of
evolutionary adaptation, however, much of it is also learned.
To a large extent, learned reproductive behaviors are directed
toward those same goals:
- Attract and connect with potential mates
- Select healthy mates carrying most “desirable” traits
- Reproduce during our strongest and healthiest years
- Reproduce as frequently as possible
- Maximize probability that each intercourse
will result in fertilization
- Maximize probability that both mother and
young will survive pregnancy
- Maximize probability that offspring will reach
maturity and reproduce
These learned sexual / reproductive behaviors are strongly
influenced by cultural and social conditions.
For Example:
Different cultures use different body adornments to attract potential mates
- Body painting / cosmetics
- Jewelry
- Hair styles
Question for discussion:
What are some other reproductive behaviors which are culturally
based?
Do any of these vary with age, income, rural vs urban, etc?
Here are some others I came up with:
(Reproductive behaviors influenced by cultural / social conditions)
In many (but not all) cultures, sexual attitudes
and behaviors are heavily shaped by religion
Human sexual behaviors, like all animals: sexually dimorphic
(different forms in males vs. females)
For example, in the United States:
Men tend to solicit by projecting
power & strength
Women tend to solicit by projecting
availability and access
Women tend to view homosexuality as being
more normal or acceptable than do men
Men tend to view breastfeeding
as more erotic than do women
Others?
It is important, therefore, that reproductive / sexual behaviors be
viewed contextually:
We can not define “normal” or “typical” reproductive attitudes and
behaviors without first:
- Defining specific cultural, political, and historical conditions
- Defining which group(s) of individuals we are including
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