In Chapter 1, the importance of critical thinking was noted. In particular, a critical thinker looks beyond the obvious and resists easy generalizations

Analyze critically the sex differences in courtship and mating that are common in cultures around the world and among nonhuman mammals. How would you respond to the following question: Do genes hold culture on a tight leash, a long, flexible leash, or no leash at all?

What will be an ideal response?

Answer: A good answer will include the following key points.
? Males tend to be more promiscuous and prefer young, attractive mates.
? Females tend to be choosier, monogamous, and prefer dominant males who have resources and status.
? These are, however, generalizations and there are exceptions to these generalizations.
? Genes seem to hold culture on a long, flexible leash.
? Genes, it appears, set limits within which culture and experience can have a lot of influence on behaviors.