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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In Dawkins' examine of ESS simulations, what two kinds of creatures are there?
(a) Ones that always cooperate, and ones that always fight.
(b) Ones that always win, and ones that always lose.
(c) Ones that always fight, and ones that always back down.
(d) Ones that always run away, and ones that attack in stealth.

2. What does Dawkins say points to the idea that all living things come from the same types of early molecules?
(a) All life forms are based on carbon.
(b) All life forms have similar pH balances.
(c) All life forms have basic cell structures.
(d) All life forms are made from DNA molecules.

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 unscientific.
(b) As fundamental to evolution.
(c) As a reasonable alternative hypothesis.
(d) As probable.

4. What happens in inversion?
(a) A gene is inserted backwards on a strand of DNA.
(b) Chromosomes are inserted backwards in a cell nucleus.
(c) DNA is inserted backwards in a chromosome.
(d) A nucleotide is inserted backwards in DNA.

5. What hazard does the author identify in killing a rival?
(a) The attacker might be ostracized for killing the rival.
(b) Others might try to revenge the rival.
(c) A stronger rival might take the rival's place.
(d) The rival will no longer be able to cooperate to protect against enemies.

Short Answer Questions

1. What would molecules that started to manufacture energy using the sun eventually become?

2. In the science fiction story Dawkins cites, is the machine created by the instructions beneficial or dangerous?

3. What would molecules that grouped and built protective walls around themselves become?

4. What does Dawkins compare point mutation to?

5. According to Dawkins, how might a gene that normally does something selfish end in doing something unselfish?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Dawkins say would happen if a selfish member of a species were born into a species of unselfish members?

2. In ESS simulations, what happens when a hawk enters a stable group of doves?

3. Explain what a prober-retaliator is.

4. Why doesn't Dawkins find it statistically remarkable that an early molecule would arise that would copy itself?

5. Explain how the Watt Governor uses mechanics to regulate itself.

6. What examples does Dawkins give of humanity's valuation of its own species?

7. How does Dawkins say that DNA differs from blueprints for making a building?

8. In war of attrition scenarios, what is the best bet for individual behavior, according to Dawkins' reports?

9. How do animals become active and quicker than plants?

10. What does Dawkins say that the book will tell about the argument of nature versus nurture?

(see the answer keys)

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