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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What is the primary purpose of sexual reproduction that is very beneficial for all offspring?

2. High status individuals tend to have __________.

3. What is the only way to understand why evolution is the way it is?

4. What is the "good genes" theory?

5. Due to the ________________, traits that increase reproductive successes will spread and those that do not will expire.

Short Essay Questions

1. Why do males want to be with many females?

2. How do sperm sometimes kill the egg?

3. From a biologist's point of view, why is sexual reproduction not as successful as asexual?

4. Explain the story of the fisherman.

5. What does the Red Queen Theory state?

6. What secondary quality do men look for in women?

7. What does sexual reproduction mostly consist of?

8. Why are hermaphrodites unstable?

9. How would a pre-Darwin think explain why giraffes have long necks?

10. When is it even more important for a female to find a good mate?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How has biology intervened to change our ideas of what is beautiful or attractive? Why are men more attracted to thinner women, while women prefer an attractive man who has high status? Give reasons for your answers.

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the different tones that Ridley uses throughout the novel. Point out specific tones in different sections. Then describe why the tone works best for that section.

Essay Topic 3

Ridley asserts that experiences as well as biological changes have made male and female minds different. Does Ridley view this as a negative? In the past, how has this statement been derogatory towards women? How has it made women be seen as unequal in the eyes of men?

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This section contains 689 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample