The Evolution Of Desire

The Evolution Of Desire – David M. Buss

Why do men and women often look for different qualities in a partner? Why does jealousy exist, and why do people sometimes cheat on those they love? Evolutionary psychologist David M. Buss explores these questions in The Evolution of Desire: Strategies of Human Mating, drawing on a landmark study of thousands of people in dozens of cultures around the world.

Buss argues that human mating behavior has been shaped by evolution, as our ancestors faced different reproductive challenges. According to his research, women across cultures tend to place greater value on a partner’s resources, status and willingness to invest in a relationship, while men tend to place greater emphasis on youth and physical attractiveness, which he links to fertility. Both sexes, he finds, highly value kindness, intelligence and dependability.

The book explores the strategies people use to attract mates, from displaying resources to enhancing appearance, and differences between short-term and long-term mating strategies. Buss also examines the dark side of mating, including jealousy, which he describes as an evolved defense against infidelity, conflict between the sexes, deception, and the reasons relationships break down. Later editions discuss topics such as mate poaching, the effects of modern technology and environments on mating, and the complexities of women’s sexual strategies.

Clear and provocative, the book is a foundational text in evolutionary psychology and has been widely discussed.

The Evolution of Desire will appeal to readers interested in psychology, relationships and human nature. Readers should note that evolutionary explanations of sex differences are debated, with critics emphasizing cultural and social factors, and that the book deals frankly with sexual topics.