Cordelia Fine, "Testosterone Rex: Myths of Sex, Science, and Society" (Norton, 2018)
New Books in Critical Theory
Deep Dive
What is the main argument of Cordelia Fine's book 'Testosterone Rex'?
Cordelia Fine's 'Testosterone Rex' challenges the notion that biological sex is a fundamental, diverging force in human development. She argues that differences between the sexes are not solely shaped by evolutionary pressures and hormones like testosterone. Instead, she uses research from evolutionary science, psychology, neuroscience, and endocrinology to debunk myths about sex roles and calls for a more equal society based on the full potential of both sexes.
How does Cordelia Fine critique the evolutionary psychology explanation for gender roles?
Fine critiques evolutionary psychology by dismantling the idea that men and women have evolved to be inherently different due to biological factors like testosterone. She argues that the assumptions about men being more competitive and risk-taking, and women being more nurturing, are oversimplified and not supported by robust scientific evidence. Fine highlights the complexity and diversity in sexual selection and behavior across species, challenging the traditional narrative.
What is Bateman's Principle, and what are its flaws according to Cordelia Fine?
Bateman's Principle, proposed by geneticist Angus Bateman, suggests that males have greater reproductive variance and benefit more from multiple mates, while females do not. Fine critiques this principle by pointing out flaws in the original study, such as methodological errors and biases that overestimated male reproductive success. She also highlights that female promiscuity and competition are more common in the animal kingdom than previously thought, challenging the simplistic view of sexual selection.
Why does Cordelia Fine argue that sex is a system rather than a binary category?
Fine argues that sex is a complex system involving genetics, hormones, and environmental factors, rather than a simple binary category. She emphasizes that sex differences in traits like brain development and behavior are not fixed but are influenced by interactions with the environment. This perspective challenges the traditional view of sex as strictly male or female, highlighting the diversity and fluidity in biological and social aspects of sex.
What does Cordelia Fine say about the role of testosterone in shaping behavior?
Fine argues that the role of testosterone in shaping behavior has been overstated. She critiques the idea that testosterone is the primary driver of masculine traits like aggression and risk-taking. Through various studies, including those on individuals with differences in sexual development, Fine shows that the links between testosterone and behavior are not as clear-cut as often assumed. She emphasizes the importance of environmental and social factors in shaping behavior, rather than attributing it solely to hormones.
How does Cordelia Fine explain the persistence of gender roles in society?
Fine explains the persistence of gender roles through the concept of gender socialization, where individuals internalize societal norms about masculinity and femininity. She argues that these roles are not solely determined by biology but are reinforced through cultural practices and social learning. Fine also highlights the flexibility and diversity of gender roles across different societies and historical periods, challenging the idea that they are biologically fixed.
- Cordelia Fine's background in experimental psychology, criminology, and philosophy of science shaped her interest in sex and gender.
- The chapter clarifies the distinction between biological sex and social gender.
- Fine's work challenges stereotypes about sex-specific roles in various fields.
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