First published 2010
Christopher Ryan and Cacilda Jethá examine the fundamental assumptions about human sexuality that have dominated Western thought since Darwin. The authors argue that monogamy contradicts human evolutionary history. They present evidence from anthropology, archaeology, primatology, anatomy, and psychology to support their thesis that early humans lived in egalitarian groups where food, childcare, and sexual partners were commonly shared. Ryan and Jethá challenge the traditional narrative that men evolved to exchange protection and resources for women's fidelity and fertility. Instead, they propose that our species developed in sexually open communities. The book addresses contemporary relationship struggles through this lens, examining why fidelity proves difficult, why sexual passion often diminishes over time, and why certain behaviors persist despite social expectations. The authors weave together overlooked research to demonstrate how modern relationship problems stem from the conflict between our biological heritage and cultural demands for monogamy.
Genres: psychology, anthropology, evolution, non-fiction, biology, academic
Vibes: intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: academic, non-fiction
416 pages · Hardcover · Harper