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An evolutionary explanation of human behaviour

By Amanda Gefter

19 April 2011

IN HIS search for the meaning of life, evolutionary psychologist Douglas Kenrick wants to know why we do what we do, and which of our actions leave us happy and fulfilled.

His tour of human behaviour is breezy and engaging, but likely to leave the scientifically minded reader wanting more, as he reveals unsurprising facts about human nature, such as men desire younger women for their fertility. Thankfully, he covers a few intriguing theories, like suggesting that leftist liberals and right-wing conservatives in the US are merely employing different mating strategies.

The needless touting of evolutionary psychology’s merits left me…

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