Final answer:
The key distinction between promiscuity and polygamy is that polygamy involves a long-term, socially sanctioned union with multiple spouses, while promiscuity involves non-committal relationships with multiple partners. Option a.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main difference between promiscuity and polygamy is that polygamy entails the establishment of a long-term social bond, whereas promiscuity does not involve such enduring connections. Polygamy is a mating system where an individual has multiple spouses simultaneously, and these relationships are socially sanctioned and often legally recognized to varying degrees around the world. There are two primary forms of polygamy: polygyny, where one man is married to multiple women, and polyandry, where one woman is married to multiple men, although the latter is much rarer. In contrast, promiscuity refers to a strategy of mating with multiple partners without the commitment of a long-term relationship or marriage. Polygamous relationships often begin as monogamous unions and can grow into polygamous arrangements, typically as a sign of status or in response to societal needs, such as population imbalances or resource scarcity.