Pros And Cons Of Human Sexual Selection

In comparison to other species, the human approach toward sexual selection is remarkably distinct. Humans are the most intelligent species on earth, and have differed from our previous animalistic ancestors through a comprehensive verbal communication system and an ever-advancing global civilization. Additionally, humans vastly enjoy sex, having developed methods of contraception in order to have sex without the result of creating new life. This is quite counterintuitive to the theory of evolution as the purpose of sex is to reproduce and pass on genes with the goal of expanding the population. Nonetheless, the human style of sexual selection is unique and fascinating as we strive to select and attract partners using three distinct methods: physical (phenotypic) attractiveness, personal connectedness, and resource successfulness.
Indeed, many selections are superficial, choosing a mate solely based on their sexual attraction to an individual. Additionally, beauty is a subjective concept varying from a person to person basis due to their interests in a mate’s phenotypic traits. Characteristics such as differing hair color, body shape, clothing style, etc. play discrete roles in human sexual selection as mates are selected with their phenotypes for the highest level of fitness. In fact, when an individual spots a potential mate, who they deem sexually attractive, their hormone levels can rise, eliciting a sexual response in both males and females. For example, “males have been shown to have relatively high testosterone when engaging in mating effort” (Lawson et al. 2017). In males, a penile erection would occur, whereas a vaginal lubrication would occur in females. This concept of sexual attractiveness is one that has evolved over time and is driven by both