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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 3.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. How common does Dawkins say doubt about evolution is?
(a) He says it's in everyone.
(b) He says it's rare.
(c) He says it's nonexistent.
(d) He says it's common.

2. What does Dawkins postulate maintains sexual reproduction as a feature?
(a) The impossibility of asexual reproduction.
(b) The desireability of genetic mutations.
(c) The sexual reproduction gene trying to copy itself.
(d) The need for genetic variation.

3. How does Darwin characterize the idea that the goal of evolution is for a species to survive, so individuals will take actions that are good for the species?
(a) As probable.
(b) As a reasonable alternative hypothesis.
(c) As unscientific.
(d) As fundamental to evolution.

4. Does the author believe that all people should act selfishly?
(a) No, and he believes people will not naturally act selfishly.
(b) Yes, he believes selfish behavior has positive results.
(c) Yes, he believes that selfish behavior is natural and therefore good, despite negative results.
(d) No, he believes people should try to overcome selfish natural tendancies.

5. What fundamental question does Dawkins want to consider?
(a) Why do people exist?
(b) Why do genes exist?
(c) Why does DNA exist?
(d) Why do molecules exist?

Short Answer Questions

1. What would give longevity to early self-duplicating molecules, according to Dawkins?

2. How does the author define intelligent life?

3. In Dawkins' metaphor about DNA, how does he describe the creation of new DNA by sexual reproduction?

4. What does the author suggest might be better wording than "survival of the fittest"?

5. What molecules does Dawkins say existed in ancient seas and formed amino acids?

(see the answer key)

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