Nikki Cheshire 10/03/2012 Psych 100H Ray The Value of Evolution in Understanding Psychological Concepts Ever since psychology

became a prominent scientific field of study, scientists have attempted numerous ways to examine psychological processes. Due to the fact that the brain cannot be directly observed, many researchers began to connect studies of biological and physiological functions to further their understanding of psychology. However, the prevalence of an emerging theory in the scientific community would shape how people viewed and understood early psychology: Darwins theory of evolution. While the theory of evolution cannot completely explain why certain psychological functions have developed or occur in human beings, it serves to provide a foundation of understanding that is imperative in developing the field of psychology. Though its true that evolution is able to theorize on the basic emergence of certain universals, such as the emotions and facial expressions observed in people regardless of location, its accuracy begins to falter when its applied outside the realm of basic processes. Darwins theory is comprised of one distinct hypothesis: the prevalence of natural selection, which is dictated not by the needs and whims of humans, but by the obstacles to reproduction that are imposed by the natural environment (Gray, 64). His theory went on to describe how natural selection allowed the fittest at the time to survive and reproduce, and was often spurred by changes in the environment (Gray, 65). Thus, the fittest members of a species would be the ones to reproduce, and their young would

theoretically be more suited to survive with each passing generation. Though while Darwins theory of evolution is able to explain how we originally obtained certain biological functions and therefore why there are certain psychological universals across the globe it fails to describe why certain behavioral differences exist in various cultures. For instance, while its important to understand basic functions and processes, [t]his approach to research leaves out too much about cultural beliefs, cultural practices, and social relations and is therefore not enough for a science of humanity (Arnett). Evolutionary theory on its own is unable to fully explore the diversity of cultures throughout the globe, from societal norms and beliefs to even the most basic social expectations and practices. As a result, different theories and methods of study are required to form a more rounded understanding of psychological processes that evolutionary psychology simply cannot tackle on its own. However, despite its limitations, Darwins theory of evolution is crucial in forming the foundation for understanding psychology as a whole. Due to its flexible nature, evolutionary psychology serves as a framework for understanding human behavior and also has the capacity to unite all areas of psychology (Geher). By understanding the basics of our development, and how certain processes emerged in humankind, researchers can better understand why certain psychological functions and abnormalities exist. The more scientists understand about humans evolutionary past, the better they can treat someone who has developed a specific abnormality. Further, due to the fact that evolutionary psychology can be applied to so many studies in the field, it should not be considered simply a distinct branch of psychology, but rather a theoretical lens that is currently informing all branches of psychology (Buss). In modern

psychology, Darwins theories relating to the emergence of certain behavioral characteristics in humans such as gene-selection and sexual preference currently guide researchers to phenomena Darwin could not have envisioned, such as inherent and predictable forms of within-family conflict and sexual conflict between males and females (Buss). Therefore, by understanding how certain behaviors developed in humans through evolution, researchers can start to fully understand the differences in psychological concepts, such as gender differences, sexual preferences, and other key characteristics of the human race. Darwins theory of evolution, by itself, cannot provide a holistic understanding of psychology; its unable to provide for specific cultural distinctions, such as why people in some cultures drive on different sides of the road than others, or why certain religious beliefs and practices exist. However, evolutionary psychology plays a vital role in our understanding of the foundation of human development, and work to explain how and why certain psychological processes exist. That being said, in order to fully understand the psychology of humankind, its imperative to study and consider biological theories, such as evolution, as well as cultural and environmental observations and studies.

Works Cited Arnett, Jeffrey Jensen. "The Neglected 95%, a Challenge to Psychology's Philosophy of Science." American Psychologist 64.6 (2009): 571-74. Abstract. Taking Sides: Clashing Views on Psychological Issues (2012): 64-66. Print. Buss, David M. "Darwin's Influence on Modern Psychological Science." Evolutionary Theory and Psychology. American Psychological Association, May 2009. Web. 02 Oct. 2012. <http://www.apa.org/science/about/psa/2009/05/sci-brief.aspx>. Geher, Glenn. "Evolutionary Psychology Is Not Evil! ( ... and Here's Why ... )." Psychological Topics 15.2 (2006): 181+. Abstract. Taking Sides: Clashing Views on Psychological Issues (2012): 35-45. Print. Gray, Peter. "Genetic and Evolutionary Foundations of Behavior." Psychology. 6th ed. New York: Worth, 2011. 63-68. Print.