Quillette Podcast
The Great Divergence
Feb 14, 2025
David C. Geary, a Curator's Distinguished Professor at the University of Missouri and an expert in evolutionary psychology, discusses evolving gender differences in Western societies. He explores how cognitive disparities and occupational roles have become more pronounced, despite strides toward equality. The conversation probes sexual selection, environmental pressures on traits, and the shifting career paths for women as barriers fall. Geary also addresses the implications of gender preferences in career divergence and the growing educational gap between sexes.
17:40
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Quick takeaways
- Evolved psychological differences between sexes are becoming more pronounced as social niches expand, revealing longstanding preferences previously suppressed by limited opportunities.
- Cognitive disparities between men and women are increasingly evident in developed societies, influenced by environmental factors like health and nutrition, which affect skill expression.
Deep dives
Exploring Evolved Differences Between Sexes
Evolved psychological and behavioral differences between men and women are becoming more pronounced in Western societies, contrary to the belief that increased gender equality would reduce these gaps. As societies advance and become more egalitarian, research shows that individuals are increasingly expressing inherent preferences and traits that were previously unobserved due to limited opportunities. For example, women are now more likely to pursue fields like medicine rather than being restricted to traditional roles such as nursing. This shift indicates that the expansion of social niches allows for a clearer understanding of preferences that have always existed but were previously suppressed.
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