Darwin's evolutionary theory

• Evolution

  • Theory that animals have adapted to their environment over millions of years
  • Adaptations increase the chances of survival and are passed down to the next generation
• Serviceable habits

  • Darwin's theory that humans and non-humans have similar behaviours
  • E.g, we could wrinkle our nose when we smell something disgusting - Helps us avoid inhaling something dangerous
  • Serviceable habits promote survival in all organisms
• Examples of Serviceable habits

  • Lion showing it's teeth to warn away other animals. Humans show anger by showing their teeth
  • Robin puffs out it's chest to scare others away. Humans puff their chests out in confrontation
• Evolutionary theory evaluation (1)

  • Strength
  • Supported by research into facial expressions (Yuki)
  • Fear, disgust, happiness, anger and sadness are recognised in every culture.
  • Suggests these emotions are universal, therefore innate
• Evolutionary theory evaluation (2)

  • Strength
  • Supported by research of newborn babies
  • Babies do not need to learn eye contact or facial expressions (smiling)
  • Suggests NVC is innate
• Evolutionary theory evaluation (3)

  • Weakness
  • Does not explain cultural differences
  • Some of NVC is not universal, e.g, personal space
  • Suggests that some NVC is not innate