Why do humans possess such remarkable mental abilities compared to other species? This short explores the evolution of the human mind, and challenges traditional theories about our cognitive development. Miller proposes a new idea: our brains evolved primarily as courtship devices, shaped by sexual selection rather than mere survival needs. He examines how mate choice may have driven the development of language, art, morality, and creativity. By viewing human intelligence through the lens of sexual selection, Miller offers fresh insights into the origins of our most valued mental traits. Readers will gain a new perspective on human nature, understanding how our ancestors' romantic and sexual choices unknowingly crafted the complex and powerful minds we possess today.
Geoffrey Miller is an evolutionary psychologist and associate professor at the University of New Mexico. He is renowned for his work on the role of sexual selection in human evolution, particularly in shaping cognitive traits and behaviors. Miller's research has significantly contributed to our understanding of how mate choice may have influenced the development of human intelligence, creativity, and social behavior. Miller's work presents a compelling argument for the importance of sexual selection in human cognitive evolution, challenging traditional views and offering new perspectives on the origins of human mental abilities.
If you liked this book, you'll probably like these books as well.

Sir Halford J. Mackinder
The scepter of power lay in the Heartland.
13:49 min

Roger Scruton
Modern conservatism rests on the appreciation of values under threat.
21:46 min

Homer
A foundational epic that shaped Western ideals of war, heroism, and the legacy of conflict.
17:30 min

Homer
The epic's lasting power lies in transforming mythical adventures into timeless human experiences.
16:15 min

Sun Tzu
Intelligence and strategy determines victory more than weapons, numbers, or brave soldiers combined.
18:30 min

B.R. Myers
North Korea is fundamentally ethnonationalist — a fact the West neglects to its own detriment.
20:53 min

Mary Beard
Rome's contradictory nature, both liberating and oppressive, built an empire whose legacy endures.
20:12 min

Christopher Ryan
Is monogamy a method of societal control, perverting our most basic biological nature?
23:01 min

Mark Regnerus
When sex costs nothing, we undermine the evolutionary systems supporting humanity for millennia.
20:24 min

Abhijit Banerjee
Fighting poverty requires implementing proven solutions, not out-of-touch ideologies.
20:50 min

Lee Kuan Yew
One remarkable leader proves the power of tailored policymaking for national development.
41:12 min

Bryan Caplan
We've been psyopped into believing children cost more and deliver less, sabotaging our own happiness.
19:16 min

Michael Shellenberger
Homelessness isn't an insurmountable problem, but rather a direct consequence of progressive policy.
20:56 min

Alexander C. Karp
The software century demands purposeful ambition, not just market-driven development.
24:16 min

Bruce Gilley
Historical prejudice against colonialism rears its ugly head despite anti-colonialism fueling totalitarianism.
23:02 min