Relationships Archives

Evolutionary Relationships: Mate Selection & Jealousy

What do men and women look for in a mate? How does evolution affect sexual behavior? How is jealousy a construct of evolution? Human babies take a long time to develop after birth. This long period of child care requires participation from females and males which has created some mating-related behaviors. Everything from mate selection, to jealousy, to testing loyalty, to how society perceives promiscuity comes from evolution. Keep reading for more on evolutionary relationships.

Reciprocal Altruism Theory: Selfish Selflessness

Why do we feel a strong urge to repay favors, even from strangers? How does altruism lead to happiness? Is it possible to feel good while faking altruism? Reciprocal altruism theory states that we treat others as we have been treated by them. In other words, we may help others at a cost to ourselves, in hopes that others will repay the favor. This altruistic behavior came from evolution because by doing good for others, we are doing good for ourselves. Keep reading to learn more about the reciprocal altruism theory.

Reproduction in Mammals and the Evolution Behind It

Why don’t mammals reproduce asexually? Why are sperm so much smaller than eggs? Why do male mammals typically have to fight to inseminate a female? Reproduction in mammals varies depending on species. The main reason mammals reproduce sexually is to promote genetic diversity, otherwise, an entire species could be wiped out with one sickness. Keep reading to learn more about reproduction in mammals.

Group Selection Is a Myth: Only Genes Matter

Is there such thing as group selection? Why did the lemmings jump off the cliff in the famous documentary? The theory of “group selection” states that some members of a group may sacrifice themselves for the good of the species. This theory is greatly flawed because if there was a self-sacrificing gene, then the members of the group with that gene would die out very quickly. Continue reading about the myth of group selection.

Michelle Obama: Marriage and Engagement Issues

Why didn’t the Obamas’ marriage start out smoothly? Why did Barack take a second, solo honeymoon just weeks after he married Michelle? Michelle Obama always dreamed about getting married, but Barack, who came from a family with loose ties, didn’t care much about marriage. The two came from very different upbringings and that caused them to clash over their ideals. Keep reading about Michelle Obama’s marriage to Barack

Therapy Saved Barack and Michelle’s Marriage

Why did Michelle Obama think she and Barack’s marriage was falling apart? What steps did they take to save it? When Barack Obama became an Illinois State Senator, Michelle was left to do the job of a single parent while trying to pursue her own career. This eventually put such a strain on the Obamas’ marriage that Michelle didn’t know if it would last. Keep reading to learn about Barack and Michelle’s marriage and how they managed to save it.

Dating Down: Why It Can Ruin Your Happiness

What is dating down? Is it bad for your happiness and future plans? In The Defining Decade, Meg Jay says that not dating down is an important part of finding a life partner. Dating down means dating someone you would’ve dated in your past, before you were mature or at the point in your life you’re at now. Read more about dating down and why you should avoid it.

The Cohabitation Effect: Should You Live Together?

What is the cohabitation effect? What is its effect on relationships? The cohabitation effect is when a couple cohabitates without making a strong commitment or begins cohabiting by accident. The cohabitation effect can have negative consequences for relationships. Read more about the cohabitation effect below.

Suzanne Alele: Michelle Obama’s Best Friend

Who was Suzanne Alele? What lasting impact did she have on Michelle Obama’s life? Suzanne Alele was Michelle’s best friend from Princeton. Suzanne was carefree, spontaneous, and full of vigor. Tragically, at the age of 26, Suzanne lost her battle with cancer and taught Michelle the importance of enjoying life. Keep reading to learn more about Michelle and Suzanne’s friendship.

Michelle Obama’s Family: Growing Up in Chicago

What was Michelle Obama’s family life like growing up? What influences did Michelle’s parents have on her education? Michelle Obama’s first stage of Becoming starts with her family life in Chicago. She grew up in a one-bedroom apartment with her parents and older brother and she credits her mother, Marian, for teaching her to value education. Keep reading to learn more about Michelle Obama’s family and childhood.