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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 9.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In Dawkins' description, how does a retaliator behave?
(a) A retaliator mimics the behavior of the creature it encounters.
(b) A retaliator waits to see what will happen and then reacts through a code of rules.
(c) A retaliator appears to be a dove but acts like a hawk.
(d) A retaliator appears to be a hawk but acts like a dove.

2. In sexual reproduction, what does the larger egg cell have that the smaller sperm cell does not?
(a) The ability to protect itself from other cells.
(b) More food reserves for the future embryo.
(c) The ability to move around to more beneficial environments.
(d) A complete set of DNA.

3. What does Dawkins cite Medawar's study to help explain?
(a) Male and female hormonal differences.
(b) Menopause.
(c) Male fertility.
(d) Menstrual cycles.

4. Why does Dawkins say kind or cooperative behavior arises?
(a) Because other kind or cooperative behavior promotes it.
(b) Because other factors besides natural selection are in play.
(c) Because it promotes the good of the whole species.
(d) Because it allows a gene to achieve a selfish goal.

5. What does ESS stand for?
(a) Evolutionarily Successful Strategy.
(b) Engineered Survival Strategy.
(c) Evolutionary Stable Strategy.
(d) Environmental Secure Strategy.

Short Answer Questions

1. What animals does the author mention as examples of animals that work hard to rescue or save others?

2. 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?

3. From a gene's point of view, what does Dawkins say an organism is equally related to?

4. According to the relatedness calculations in the book, how related is a person to him- or herself?

5. How does Dawkins characterize the runt of a litter?

(see the answer key)

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