Why Men Matter: Mating Patterns Drive Evolution of Human Lifespan
2007
Why Men Matter: Mating Patterns Drive Evolution of Human Lifespan
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Tuljapurkar Shripad D., Puleston Cedric O., Gurven Michael D.
Primary Institution: Department of Biological Sciences, Stanford University
Hypothesis
The inclusion of males and mating patterns extends Hamilton's theory and predicts the pattern of human senescence.
Conclusion
Old-age male fertility provides a selective force against harmful mutations, allowing for a gradual rise in mortality after female menopause instead of a sharp increase.
Supporting Evidence
- Males much older than 50 years have substantial realized fertility through matings with younger females.
- The study presents data showing that male fertility is nonzero until ages 55 to 75 in various populations.
- The findings suggest that one-sex demographic models are insufficient to describe the forces shaping human senescence.
Takeaway
This study shows that older men can still have babies, which helps explain why people live longer than expected after women stop having children.
Methodology
The study uses a two-sex demographic model to analyze the impact of male fertility on human lifespan.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website