Women and Men: the Biology of the Sexes

What are the biological differences between men and women and how do they come about? Beyond the obvious reproductive differences, do other biological differences influence the behavior of women and men? For example, not only do women and men differ in various sex hormone levels, but their brains are influenced in different ways by those hormones. To what extent are the differences in sexual behavior among men and women due to genetic variation? How has our evolutionary history influenced our sexuality? Why are cultural sanctions against sexual “cheating” more severe for women than men? Can we make inferences about our own sexuality by examining mating systems in other primates (particularly the great apes)? Our discussion of these and other questions will be facilitated by a careful reading of selected evolutionary, medical, neurophysiological, and sociobiological literature.

Syllabus

Fall 2014
Mon./Thurs. 10:10 a.m.-noon

Betsy Sherman
Dickinson 106
Office hours sign-up posted outside office each week

Requirements

The readings for this course will be taken mainly from a collection of papers that will be distributed by the professor. Additional readings from other sources may sometimes be assigned. Of course, students are encouraged to branch out and do more than the minimum required reading. Take responsibility for your own learning. You will find the work much more rewarding if you come to class prepared, having read the assignment carefully so that you can participate in discussions. Attendance is required. Do not be late for class as it disrupts all of us. Students will write two or three essay problem sets, either in class or at home. From time to time, I may give a brief quiz on the assigned reading at the beginning of a class. Late papers will not be accepted. All of the assigned work must be completed in order to pass this course. If you must miss a class it is your responsibility to get the assignment and come to the next class prepared. Please do not email me or leave phone messages for trivial matters (e.g. is it ok for me to be late... can you put the assignment in my box...etc.). Please check my office hours (posted outside my office, Dickinson 108) or make an appointment with me at the end of class. If you are having difficulty with the work, please come talk to me!

Topics

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  1. Daring to Discuss Women in Science
  2. Higher Level Of Testosterone In Women Linked To Choice Of Risky Careers
  3. Men, Who Needs Them