- 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) Charles Darwin
B) Richard Dawkins
C) E. O. Wilson
D) Stephen Jay Gould
- 2. What year was 'Sociobiology' published?
A) 1990
B) 1965
C) 1980
D) 1975
- 3. Which animal did Wilson study extensively to develop his theories?
A) Dolphins
B) Ants
C) Primates
D) Birds
- 4. Which concept argues that altruistic acts can evolve through natural selection?
A) Genetic drift
B) Selfish gene theory
C) Meme theory
D) Reciprocal altruism
- 5. In sociobiology, what is significant about the social organization of a species?
A) It occurs randomly
B) It has no evolutionary relevance
C) It is solely determined by environment
D) It can influence evolutionary success
- 6. What term describes the genetic makeup of a population?
A) Population density
B) Genotype frequency
C) Phenotype
D) Gene pool
- 7. What do sociobiologists suggest about human behavior?
A) It is unrelated to biology
B) It is influenced by evolutionary history
C) It is culturally determined
D) It is entirely random
- 8. What is altruism in the context of sociobiology?
A) Behavior aimed at self-interest
B) Competition for resources
C) Aggression towards others
D) Selfless behavior that benefits others
- 9. Which term describes the evolutionary strategy of sacrificing personal reproductive success for the benefit of relatives?
A) Kin selection
B) Group selection
C) Sexual selection
D) Natural selection
- 10. Sociobiology has often been critiqued for potentially promoting which idea?
A) Biological determinism
B) Social engineering
C) Cultural relativism
D) Environmental adaptation
- 11. What concept did Wilson introduce to describe behavior that promotes the survival of others' genes?
A) Competitive fitness
B) Survival of the fittest
C) Inclusive fitness
D) Adaptive behavior
- 12. Which of the following terms refers to behaviors that appear selfless but benefit the actor?
A) Selfishness
B) Cooperation
C) Mutualism
D) Altruism
- 13. What is a significant implication of Wilson's sociobiology?
A) Dismissing the role of environment
B) Understanding behaviors through evolutionary principles
C) Eliminating the need for social sciences
D) Promoting social conformity
- 14. Which of the following concepts is central to sociobiology?
A) Behaviorism
B) Freudian psychology
C) Social contract theory
D) Natural selection
- 15. Which social insect is often studied in sociobiology?
A) Ant
B) Butterfly
C) Dragonfly
D) Grasshopper
- 16. What is a common methodology used in sociobiological studies?
A) Literature reviews
B) Field experiments
C) Laboratory tests
D) Computer simulations
- 17. Which book is a seminal work in sociobiology?
A) On the Origin of Species
B) Sociobiology: The New Synthesis
C) The Descent of Man
D) The Selfish Gene
- 18. E.O. Wilson’s perspective includes which of the following additional fields?
A) Philosophy
B) Economics
C) Sociology
D) Ecology
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