Evolution and evolutionary theory are widely discussed and debated topics in today's society. When the topic of evolution is discussed, the conversation often includes: Darwin, his ideas about how species evolved over time and the implications it has on humans today. Even today, Darwin's work forms the foundation of our understanding of evolution. However, what many people fail to realize is that evolution is much more encompassing than just Darwin and his finches. There are many aspects of our lives that have evolved over the years, yet we decline to see them from an evolutionary standpoint. We have become a species that is surrounded by change, and should adaptation not occur, we become segregated from the species as if we are no longer "fit" for this generation. Darwin defines fitness as one's ability to pass on a comparative advantage to the preceding generation. Many aspects of our lives went through an evolutionary process because, much like in traditional cases of evolution, in order for that particular part of life to continue to exist, it had to evolve with the changing environment to guarantee its survival. If certain parts of our lives had not evolved, spears would still be used for hunting and the primary mode of transportation would be walking.
Saad (2012) proposes in his article that even popular culture can be viewed from an evolutionary standpoint. He also proposes that these present ideas in popular culture do not vary over time or cultures because it is something that pre-exists within us, analogous to our genetic code that defines who we are as a species and individuals even before birth. Following a summary of the arguments presented in his article, I will state and defend my opinions on the claims made by Saad.
Summary.
Saad begins his article by explaining that many theorists believe that who we become in our lifetime is either because of our genetics, or because of our environmental upbringing.