- 1. Sociobiology, a groundbreaking work by renowned biologist Edward O. Wilson, published in 1975, is a pivotal text that explores the complex interplay between genetics and social behavior in various species, including humans. In this seminal book, Wilson posits that social behaviors are influenced by evolutionary processes, suggesting that many aspects of human conduct can be understood through the lens of biology and natural selection. By examining the social structures of animals such as ants, bees, and primates, Wilson articulates how behaviors such as altruism, cooperation, and aggression may have evolved to enhance survival and reproductive success. He emphasizes the importance of biological underpinnings in social interactions, which sparked both acclaim and controversy, as it raised profound questions about the roles of nature and nurture in shaping human society. Wilson’s sociobiology laid the foundation for future interdisciplinary studies in fields like psychology, anthropology, and ecology, urging scientists and scholars to consider the genetic roots of behavior and the evolutionary history that connects all forms of life. This influential work has not only enriched our understanding of biological sciences but has also ignited debates on the implications of viewing human behavior through a biological lens, prompting discussions about free will, ethics, and the essence of humanity.
Who is the author of 'Sociobiology'?
A) Richard Dawkins
B) Charles Darwin
C) E. O. Wilson
D) Stephen Jay Gould
- 2. What year was 'Sociobiology' published?
A) 1980
B) 1975
C) 1965
D) 1990
- 3. Which animal did Wilson study extensively to develop his theories?
A) Ants
B) Primates
C) Dolphins
D) Birds
- 4. Which concept argues that altruistic acts can evolve through natural selection?
A) Genetic drift
B) Reciprocal altruism
C) Selfish gene theory
D) Meme theory
- 5. In sociobiology, what is significant about the social organization of a species?
A) It has no evolutionary relevance
B) It can influence evolutionary success
C) It occurs randomly
D) It is solely determined by environment
- 6. What term describes the genetic makeup of a population?
A) Gene pool
B) Genotype frequency
C) Population density
D) Phenotype
- 7. What do sociobiologists suggest about human behavior?
A) It is entirely random
B) It is unrelated to biology
C) It is culturally determined
D) It is influenced by evolutionary history
- 8. What is altruism in the context of sociobiology?
A) Competition for resources
B) Selfless behavior that benefits others
C) Aggression towards others
D) Behavior aimed at self-interest
- 9. Which term describes the evolutionary strategy of sacrificing personal reproductive success for the benefit of relatives?
A) Natural selection
B) Group selection
C) Kin selection
D) Sexual selection
- 10. Sociobiology has often been critiqued for potentially promoting which idea?
A) Environmental adaptation
B) Biological determinism
C) Social engineering
D) Cultural relativism
- 11. What concept did Wilson introduce to describe behavior that promotes the survival of others' genes?
A) Competitive fitness
B) Adaptive behavior
C) Survival of the fittest
D) Inclusive fitness
- 12. Which of the following terms refers to behaviors that appear selfless but benefit the actor?
A) Mutualism
B) Cooperation
C) Selfishness
D) Altruism
- 13. What is a significant implication of Wilson's sociobiology?
A) Understanding behaviors through evolutionary principles
B) Eliminating the need for social sciences
C) Promoting social conformity
D) Dismissing the role of environment
- 14. Which of the following concepts is central to sociobiology?
A) Natural selection
B) Social contract theory
C) Behaviorism
D) Freudian psychology
- 15. Which social insect is often studied in sociobiology?
A) Dragonfly
B) Butterfly
C) Grasshopper
D) Ant
- 16. What is a common methodology used in sociobiological studies?
A) Laboratory tests
B) Literature reviews
C) Field experiments
D) Computer simulations
- 17. Which book is a seminal work in sociobiology?
A) The Selfish Gene
B) On the Origin of Species
C) The Descent of Man
D) Sociobiology: The New Synthesis
- 18. E.O. Wilson’s perspective includes which of the following additional fields?
A) Sociology
B) Philosophy
C) Ecology
D) Economics
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