Science and Myth in the Evolution of Gender and Sex: On Naturalistic and Moralistic Fallacies

Please join us for an exciting cross-disciplinary seminar by Duur Aanen, professor of evolution and genetics, Wageningen University & Research, NL.

Abstract

We see completely opposite viewpoints on the question of the natural condition of ‘gender’. Some, like evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins, argue that there is a binary division of genders, closely aligned with the biological sexes. Queer theorists, on the other hand, argue that the binary distinction between male and female gender is a social construct, and that the ‘natural condition’ is much more fluid and diverse.

Even though those are completely opposite conclusions, proponents of both viewpoints agree on the importance of knowing the answer to the question what is ‘natural’ and what is the role of ‘nature’ and ‘nurture’. In my presentation, I will argue that we should aim to distinguish Science (i.e. addressing “is” questions) from Myth (i.e. addressing “ought” questions), to avoid naturalistic and moralistic fallacies in this debate. However, I will also show that in the history of evolutionary biology Myth has sometimes guided the Science, rather than vice versa.

Hybrid seminar

If you can’t join in person consider the Zoom option:

https://ucph-ku.zoom.us/j/65934018063?pwd=NUNoanplVW4wV21ISzh6NGVKS2dEdz09
Meeting ID: 659 3401 8063
Passcode: 274819