Question

In what important way does cultural transmission deviate from the way natural selection operates on genetic transmission?

Select one:
a.Culture and ideas can spread even if they greatly reduce reproductive fitness.
b.All culture and ideas are not subject to natural selection.
c.Cultural transmission more often has a deleterious effect than a beneficial effect on species survival.
d.Every idea that an individual carries in her body is equally likely to be incorporated by her offspring.

Answer 1

Cultural transmission allows for the spread of ideas and cultural traits that do not necessarily enhance reproductive fitness, unlike genetic transmission that is governed by natural selection. Therefore, the correct option is A.

Step-by-step explanation:

In what important way does cultural transmission deviate from the way natural selection operates on genetic transmission? The significant deviation is that culture and ideas can spread even if they greatly reduce reproductive fitness. Unlike genetic transmission, which is governed by the principles of natural selection, cultural transmission allows for the propagation and maintenance of behaviors, ideas, and cultural traits that may not directly enhance or could even negatively impact reproductive success. This can happen due to the beneficial aspects of culture that improve survival but do not affect reproductive fitness directly, or because cultural practices and ideas are often passed on through mechanisms other than reproduction, such as teaching and imitation.