evolution of aggression

The evolution of aggressive behaviour is assumed to have occured over generations as it would be useful for suvival.

Behavours such as aggression are adapted to a hostile environment and would aid survival and increase the aggressive individuals fitness to reproduce. Agression is needed to defend from attacks, protect their mate or offspring. Non-aggressive indivduals would be less likely to survive and reproduce so their genes wouldnt be passed on.  

Buss et al (1997) Investigated whether there was evidence to support the theory of natural selction. 

1. Humans gather resources which are needed for survival. These include land, water, food, tools and weapons. People would have to buy/sell or steal to get these.

2. Any enemies could cause issues for someone. You could be injured or killed or loose their status if beaten. W/O aggression you could be robbed, killed or injured.

3. Men and women of the same sex are aggressive towards eachother when fighting for resources. EG: Members of the opposite sex. 

1. Scientific credability: Research demonstrates many scientific characteristics. For example, it is falsifiable as it predicts observable changes will be seen in organisms over time as they adapt to survive and reproduce in their environment. Darwins theory of evolution is accepted in the scientific community as there is evidence. For example, Darwin provided sceintific observations from girraffes. 

2. Supported by evidence: Wilson and Daly (1985) analysed homicide figures from Detroit and they found that homicides were majoritivly committed by young single males and most of these were over conflicts such as jealousy. Explained as young single males were involved in status competition making sure they were seen as high status with males with violent and risk taking behaviours. 

1. Reductionistic: Argues that the causes of aggressive behaviours can be fully explained by evolutionary pressures which operated years ago. Overlooks role of social and cognitive factors which can cause aggressive behaviour. This lowers the validity as it is not a complete explanation of the complexities of human aggression. 

2. Deterministic: Suggests humans have little free will in choosing aggressive responses. We are seen as being programmed by evolution to respond aggressively so these responses are beyond our control. This allows violent behaviour to be seen as not the fault of the perpetrator.