From Ape to Human - Evolution of Violence and Fertility

Explore the complex relationship between human demography and violence in this 1-hour 13-minute lecture from Yale University's "Global Problems of Population Growth" course. Delve into the prevalence of warfare throughout human history, comparing human conflict patterns to those of chimpanzees. Examine violence in prehistoric and primitive societies, analyze various explanations for human aggression, and investigate the biological basis of in-group versus out-group violence. Contrast human fertility rates with those of other great apes, considering the impact of increased male contribution to child-rearing on human fecundity. Gain insights into the interconnected nature of population growth, societal structures, and violent behaviors across different periods of human development.