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reli's review against another edition
5.0
The book explores the evolution of human mating and challenges the conventional views on sex. These are the kinds of books I'm always on the lookout. We know (at least I do) that our norms, laws, and entire way of life are not based on what's natural or "how we have evolved to be". Research that challenges this view always makes me happy
sintari's review against another edition
5.0
This book will change your life. It will make you question everything you ever thought you knew about pair-bonding, monogamy and our relationship to primates.
In fact, it just might RUIN your life and put radical ideas in your head...
In fact, it just might RUIN your life and put radical ideas in your head...
katykelly's review against another edition
4.0
Thought-provoking look at times near and far, at the subject from a distance and up close. Some new thoughts and familiar ones brought together to make a very readable volume.
I studied anthropology at university, and new thoughts in the 'sex and relationships' arena continue to interest me.
For those who have no background in the subject, it's eye-opening stuff. I certainly had a few new thoughts as I went along as well.
There was far less of the promised 'dawn' era of human relationships, as of course we have no written evidence from this time, and lots of clues or physical pointers that can give ideas and hypotheses, so really the title is not as accurate as you might wish for.
Saying that, looking at relationships and monogamy through various periods and in various cultures gives a broad scope anyway for how human brains and societies have evolved to become more monogamous (or otherwise).
This covered a wide arena of disciplines, including that of the human body itself, which to me was the most fascinating part (how our bodies may show that we were not ever really built for monogamy). It made me feel even more strongly that current Western ideals really do need a rethink and that discussions from adolescence onward about relationships and expectations need more prominence.
This was harder to listen to than many, as a non-fiction audiobook. This kind of text I find is easier to access on paper, as you sometimes need to re-read sections, which isn't easy when you are listening in the car. There may also have been diagrams and illustrations I missed unknowingly.
It was clear enough to listen to, but the wide areas of subjects covered might have been easier to follow with the eye and regular headings.
Rather fascinating, one for us all to think about.
With thanks to Nudge Books for providing a sample Audible copy.
I studied anthropology at university, and new thoughts in the 'sex and relationships' arena continue to interest me.
For those who have no background in the subject, it's eye-opening stuff. I certainly had a few new thoughts as I went along as well.
There was far less of the promised 'dawn' era of human relationships, as of course we have no written evidence from this time, and lots of clues or physical pointers that can give ideas and hypotheses, so really the title is not as accurate as you might wish for.
Saying that, looking at relationships and monogamy through various periods and in various cultures gives a broad scope anyway for how human brains and societies have evolved to become more monogamous (or otherwise).
This covered a wide arena of disciplines, including that of the human body itself, which to me was the most fascinating part (how our bodies may show that we were not ever really built for monogamy). It made me feel even more strongly that current Western ideals really do need a rethink and that discussions from adolescence onward about relationships and expectations need more prominence.
This was harder to listen to than many, as a non-fiction audiobook. This kind of text I find is easier to access on paper, as you sometimes need to re-read sections, which isn't easy when you are listening in the car. There may also have been diagrams and illustrations I missed unknowingly.
It was clear enough to listen to, but the wide areas of subjects covered might have been easier to follow with the eye and regular headings.
Rather fascinating, one for us all to think about.
With thanks to Nudge Books for providing a sample Audible copy.
feaseasy's review against another edition
informative
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
3.0
aya_the_papaya's review against another edition
5.0
Fascinating, refreshing, well written and enjoyable to read! A very succinct voice to an argument not commonly heard.
willheppding's review
5.0
Challenged conventional idea surrounding sex, relationships, and infidelity.
Dives into pre-history as well as psychology, biology, and sociology.
Illuminates the many perspectives and notions underpinning conventional Western sexuality.
Dives into pre-history as well as psychology, biology, and sociology.
Illuminates the many perspectives and notions underpinning conventional Western sexuality.
encyclopediabrown's review against another edition
5.0
One of the best and most comprehensive books that I've read on human relations. Coming from a deeply religious background, and being force-fed the standard narrative of human relations - this book was a gust of much needed fresh air. I'm reading it again with my partner!