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closeDoes brain/body predict monogamy?
Posted by J_Fay on 03 Jan 2007 at 19:57 GMT
Brain/body ratios vary in humans, yet I doubt it is a good predictor of monogamy. Also, there is no proof that I'm aware of that an increase in brain/body ratio results in an increase in mental capacity. Human's unique mental capabilities could be due to changes in circuitry rather than size.
RE: Does brain/body predict monogamy?
schillaci replied to J_Fay on 27 Jan 2007 at 16:47 GMT
I would certainly agree with you that relative brain size in humans is not a predictor of monogamy or any other form of mating system. In the paper I suggested that within the order Primates monogamy is associated with larger relative brain sizes. I am also in agreement with you regarding larger relative brain size and intelligence. Variation within a species in intelligence or cognitive ability likely is not explained by variation in brain size. I think that it would be more accurate to suggest that increase in relative brain size is but one component of the evolution of primate cognition. Brain organization and brain complexity, however, are likely more important components to that evolution.