Question

The tendency for humans to be charitable to perfect strangers can be explained by the hypothesis of: a. sexual selection. b. kin selection. c. reciprocal altruism. d. polyandry. e. navigation.

Short answer

The correct answer is c. Reciprocal altruism.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Options

First, the term 'sexual selection' refers to an evolutionary theory where traits are favored because they enhance mate attraction. 'Kin selection' is the evolutionary strategy that favours the reproductive success of an organism's relatives. 'Reciprocal altruism' refers to the practice of individuals helping others with the expectation that they will return the favor in the future. 'Polyandry' refers to a mating system in which one female mates with multiple males. Finally, 'navigation' relates to the ability to plan and follow a route.

Relating the Options to the Problem

The act of being charitable to strangers typically involves an element of sacrifice with no direct benefit to the individual, thus it doesn't have any direct connection with 'sexual selection' or 'polyandry'. It doesn't relate to 'kin selection' since the act involves strangers, not relatives. 'Navigation' is quite unrelated to this context. The theory of 'reciprocal altruism' seems to describe this behavior best, as humans might be charitable to strangers with an unconscious expectation that this kindness will be returned if they are ever in need.

Choosing the Correct Option

Based on the understanding and relating the options to the problem, the most suited option for this problem is 'reciprocal altruism', as it focuses on the kind of behavior described in the problem.