The Science of Attraction

1. Studying attraction as a science.

An introduction to why scientists study attraction and attractiveness, taking account of social and evolutionary perspectives. We will also consider theoretical perspectives on strategies for pairing up.

2. What’s attractive and why.

What’s attractive? Symmetry? ‘Averageness’? Sexual dimorphism? This class will examine biological principles - that apply across the animal kingdom - that can be used to explain and understand what we find attractive.

3. Fluctuating fertility.

Our behaviour and attractiveness changes with varying hormone levels. What could be the purpose of these fluctuations?

4.Odour and attraction.

We’re all familiar with using artificial odours to enhance attractiveness, but what about natural body odours? We will explore how and why our personal fragrance is so important in attractiveness and what it signals.

5. Attraction science in the media.

This last class will focus on how to approach and evaluate attraction research as reported in the media. We will also evaluate a recent media report of a new finding.

Each two-hour class will consist of a combination of lecture, with some multi-media presentations, and tutor-led discussion.

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate understanding of scientific research on attraction;

• Explain why scientists study attraction;

• Evaluate the difference between a scientific understanding of attraction and a personal understanding of attraction.

Recommended:

• Buss, D.M., 2003. The Evolution of Desire: Strategies of Human Mating. 2nd ed. New York: Basic Books.

• Miller, G., 2003. The Mating Mind: How Sexual Choice Shaped Human Nature. New York: Vintage Press.

• Perrett, D., 2010. In Your Face: The New Science of Attraction. Houndsmills, Hamps: Palgrave Macmillan.