Modern Wisdom #571 - Joyce Benenson - How Do Women Compete For Partners?
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Jan 2, 2023 Joyce Benenson, a Harvard lecturer specializing in Human Evolutionary Biology, dives into the intriguing world of female competition for partners. She reveals how women's rivalry is often subtle and strategic, involving exclusion and gossip rather than overt aggression. The conversation explores how social media fosters feelings of inadequacy and discusses the complexities of women navigating relationships and status. Benenson also highlights the emotional responses women have to peer success, offering a nuanced view of gender dynamics in modern society.
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Solitary Competition
- Unlike males, females often prefer solitary competition, like 'scramble competition'.
- This involves outmaneuvering rivals indirectly, exemplified by finding the best prom dress.
Egalitarian Ethos
- Underlying female competition is an ethos of equality, making overt achievement painful.
- Girls downplay success, attributing it to luck, to avoid upsetting the perceived balance.
Poisoned Parcel
- Chris Willx recounts a story of a French girl kidnapped by an Amazonian tribe.
- A tribal girl attempts to poison the newcomer, highlighting female competition.