Outline the Process Involved in Evolution How Evolutionary Psychologists Have Contributed to Sort Understandings of Altruism as an Adaptive Behaviour
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- Date Submitted: 11/20/2013 05:57 AM
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Part I:
Outline the process involved in evolution and discuss how evolutionary psychologists have contributed to ort understanding of altruism as an adaptive behaviour.
The process of evolution begins with DNA, a highly complex biological coding system that creates what we know as genes. Genes act as foundations for our body, carrying with them their own singular characteristics. When genes are amalgamated, i.e.; through reproduction, a new more varied genetic code is created whilst still holding the elements of both the parental genes. The passing down and mixing of these genetic characteristics is referred to as 'Genetic Transmission'. (Clegg, 2007) These transmissions enable the process of evolution to occur providing us with greater genetic diversity. Genetic diversity can also occur through mutation. Mutation can take place due to environmental factors or in a sporadic but natural occurrence but it is the usefulness of the mutations that is important to the process of evolution. If a mutation is beneficial then its positive characteristics should stand the test of time and flourish. If a harmful mutated gene is produced then it should filter itself out due to hindrance of the species' productiveness. Genetic transmission and mutation can help explain, and are indeed examples of the process of natural selection. Those who have the greater traits and best adaptability to their surroundings will lead healthier and more prosperous lives, in turn have greater capability of passing on their strong and stable genes. Over time if a branch of species continues to have superior traits the process of evolution can be seen. Another aspect of selection is sexual selection whereby the traits of an animal are used to promote their reproductive abilities and worthiness. For instance the plumage of a peacock is used to attract a mate: with a greater visual state of the plumage reflecting the strength of its possessor' genes. (Clegg, 2007) Within the process of selection,...
Outline the process involved in evolution and discuss how evolutionary psychologists have contributed to ort understanding of altruism as an adaptive behaviour.
The process of evolution begins with DNA, a highly complex biological coding system that creates what we know as genes. Genes act as foundations for our body, carrying with them their own singular characteristics. When genes are amalgamated, i.e.; through reproduction, a new more varied genetic code is created whilst still holding the elements of both the parental genes. The passing down and mixing of these genetic characteristics is referred to as 'Genetic Transmission'. (Clegg, 2007) These transmissions enable the process of evolution to occur providing us with greater genetic diversity. Genetic diversity can also occur through mutation. Mutation can take place due to environmental factors or in a sporadic but natural occurrence but it is the usefulness of the mutations that is important to the process of evolution. If a mutation is beneficial then its positive characteristics should stand the test of time and flourish. If a harmful mutated gene is produced then it should filter itself out due to hindrance of the species' productiveness. Genetic transmission and mutation can help explain, and are indeed examples of the process of natural selection. Those who have the greater traits and best adaptability to their surroundings will lead healthier and more prosperous lives, in turn have greater capability of passing on their strong and stable genes. Over time if a branch of species continues to have superior traits the process of evolution can be seen. Another aspect of selection is sexual selection whereby the traits of an animal are used to promote their reproductive abilities and worthiness. For instance the plumage of a peacock is used to attract a mate: with a greater visual state of the plumage reflecting the strength of its possessor' genes. (Clegg, 2007) Within the process of selection,...