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