Evolution and Learning - Research Article from Learning & Memory

This encyclopedia article consists of approximately 9 pages of information about Evolution and Learning.
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Evolution and Learning - Research Article from Learning & Memory

This encyclopedia article consists of approximately 9 pages of information about Evolution and Learning.
This section contains 2,452 words
(approx. 9 pages at 300 words per page)
Buy the Evolution and Learning Encyclopedia Article

Learning is a biological adaptation, and like any other adaptation is the outcome of evolution by natural selection. Because it is acted on by natural selection, learning in different species of animals exhibits both descent with modification and specialized adaptations. Many properties of learning, like the formation of associations, are widely shared among animals. The molecular mechanisms of learning are also remarkably similar among animals as different as sea slugs, honeybees, and rats. But, in addition, learning exhibits specialized adaptations, modifications of learning which differ between species. Evolutionary adaptation in learning is usually investigated using comparative methods to examine similarities or differences among animals in how or what they learn. Learning can also have a reciprocal effect on the process of evolution. Animals can learn to exploit new habitats and new resources within their habitat and thus change the selective pressures they are exposed...

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This section contains 2,452 words
(approx. 9 pages at 300 words per page)
Buy the Evolution and Learning Encyclopedia Article
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Macmillan
Evolution and Learning from Macmillan. Copyright © 2001-2006 by Macmillan Reference USA, an imprint of the Gale Group. All rights reserved.