Gays Reading SPILL THE TEA on Sexual Evolution with Nathan H. Lents
Apr 24, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Nathan H. Lents, a biology professor and author, dives into the fascinating history of sexual evolution. He clarifies the difference between social and sexual monogamy and traces the historical origins of these practices. Lents highlights shifts in modern relationships, particularly among younger generations, embracing non-monogamy and diverse identities. He also debunks rigid binary views on relationships and discusses the social purposes of sexual behaviors in animals, emphasizing the importance of communication in navigating these topics.
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Sex Has Deep Evolutionary Roots
- Sexual evolution means sex and gender behaviors evolved over hundreds of millions of years and shape human behavior today.
- You cannot understand human sexual behavior without tracing its long evolutionary history.
Monogamy ≠ Sexual Fidelity
- Social (economic) monogamy is common in many species but sexual exclusivity rarely is.
- Sexual fidelity is almost unheard of in the natural world even among pair-bonded species.
Monogamy Is Largely Cultural
- Monogamy in humans emerged culturally after polygyny and was shaped by inheritance and institutions.
- Sexual fidelity as a cultural norm was later enforced by the Christian church.
