EVOLUTION OF HUMAN SEXUALITY in Spring 2026 (SC2087)

In this course, we will investigate the biological and evolutionary underpinning of human sexuality, mating systems, and family structures. Using the scientific method and data from studies on humans, primates, and other animals, we will explore answers to an array of controversial questions. Why are there males and females, and how are they different? What are the underlying biological and social factors that shape human and non-human sexual identities and behaviors? Are humans “naturally” monogamous? If not, what are we? How do we know? Through a combination of lectures, readings, in-class discussions, journals, and projects, we will gain a deeper understanding of the history of the human species, and the dynamic interplay between biology and culture. We will tackle evidence from many disciplines, including evolutionary biology, animal behaviour, anthropology, psychology, history, and sociology. In addition to scholarly texts, we will critically assess contemporary media portrayals of human sexuality and hone our abilities to distinguish between strong scientific evidence and baseless pseudoscientific claims about who and what we are.