1. Discuss why behavior can be assumed to be adaptive and evolving, as exemplified by the behavior of black-crowned gulls in removing eggshells and by nest-building bei or in parrots.
2. Discuss how imprinting behavior would be useful in both offspring and parents in species such as ducks and geese, where there are numerous offspring that are mobile upon hatching. Ask if anyone would expect that kind of imprinting on a herd mammal (such as a wild horse or antelope) or a human.
3. Discuss why it would be advantageous to a female mouse to abort a pregnancy when her mate in the pregnancy is displaced by a new male.
4. Discuss the controversies inhes in sociobiology, the theory that human behavior can be explained by physiology and evolution. Some scientists are reluctant to consider that antisocial behavior may be an inborn part of human nature. Asking for opinions will probably generate a lengthy discussion.
5. Discuss methods used in human society and interpersonal
relations to reduce or overcome aggression. Students should think
about how they behave with friends and with strangers, and what
they would consider aggressive or submisr behavior.