CSflim

You make a correct point, that 'fitness' is measured not only by the ability to sucessfully reproduce, but also based on how many times reproducution occurs. But it remains to be shown that women (or men for that matter) with socially desirable qualities reproduce more often than others. It is possible that they have sex more often, and with more partners, but with the widespread use of contraception, maybe this point is rendered insignificant?

People seem to be working off the assumption that social status is equivalent to biological sucess. This was undoubtedly true years ago, but is it true today?

It is not outrageous to suggest that the number of children a person has is not positively correlated with intelligence, sucess or beauty. It is also plausible that it could be negatively correlated. On the other hand it may not be correlated at all. All three possibilities are open.

What we really need to see is statistics on this topic. Since 'intelligence' and 'beauty' are far too vague, 'sucess' judged via wealth might be a useful metric.


Do not forget the topic of this thread. We are asking whether evolution is going on right now. I am not casting doubt on sexual selection. Large female breasts are quite likely the product of sexual selection opperating in the past. Nor am I casting doubts on the fact that evoltuion is still happeneing. It most certainly is. I am just wondering in what manner is it occurring, and at what speed?



EDIT:This post has been significantly edited for clairity, as people seem to have misinterpreted my intentions with it. I believe that it now gets accross its point much better. I hope that this is not considered dishonest. I am not trying to "cover up" my mistakes, just clarify my intentions.

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