Evolution of Sex and Reproductive Strategies

Explore the complex world of reproductive strategies and sexual evolution in this Yale University lecture from the Global Problems of Population Growth course. Delve into the biological and evolutionary aspects of reproduction, examining the differing burdens and strategies employed by males and females. Understand the concepts of sperm competition, physical competition, resource acquisition, and genetic selection. Investigate the prevalence of reproductive violence in certain species, particularly among great apes, including instances of rape in orangutans and infanticide in gorillas. Learn about the evolutionary basis for these behaviors and how they relate to resource scarcity. The lecture covers introduction to the topic, facts about sex and reproduction, reproductive competition and strategies, sexual coercion and violence, and the evolution of sex in great apes. Gain insights into the intricate and often challenging nature of reproduction across species.