Posted by fschmidt on
URL: https://coalpha.arkian.net/r-K-selection-theory-tp5582469p5582470.html

The problem with r/K selection theory is that it assumes that the only selection criteria is survival, not reproductive ability.  In many species, males compete for reproductive rights, and this drives K-selection.  So the largest strongest elephant seal or gorilla dominates a large group of females.  It is worthwhile for females to invest in her children, particularly her sons, in this case.  This is why higher mammals like primates exhibit more K-characteristics than their environment can explain.  The more effective the males of the species are at mate-guarding, the more reproductive ability should drive K-selection.  Under normal conditions (without feminism) humans are the primates who are best at mate-guarding which explains why we are the most K.

Monogamy largely eliminates reproductive K-selection, but replaces it with what?  Monogamous cultures tend to dominate their environment and produce a K-selection environment.  This is the situation discussed by Malthus and analyzed in detail in A Farewell to Alms: A Brief Economic History of the World.  In this environment, the main selection criteria is child mortality.  The most successful male strategy in such an environment is to be a responsible father.  This is why Clark postulates in "A Farewell to Alms" that a stable monogamous culture for several generations produces superior genetics.

In feminist countries today, not only have we eliminated survival hazard, we have also outlawed mate guarding.  This eliminates all K-selection.