THE POLITICS OF LOVE: Sexual Selection Theory and the Role of the Female

Abstract

Since the publication in 1871 of Darwin's The Descent of Man, sex has been deeply entrenched within the studies of the biological sciences. Over the years, much controversy has surrounded Darwin's theory of sexual selection, comprised of two components -- male/male competition for mates, and female choice of males for mates (Darwin 1871:215). For the purpose of this present discussion, the importance of the females of the species in sexual selection theory will be addressed, and the modifications and manipulations of this role in the conceptualization of the sexual selection hypothesis will be critically examined.