adaptationist
uh-dap-tuh-AY-shun-ist
Definition
Relating to a framework in evolutionary biology and psychology that explains human traits and behaviors as specific adaptations that were favored by natural selection because they increased survival or reproductive success.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'adaptare' meaning 'to fit,' combined with the suffix '-ation' to denote a process and '-ist' to denote a person or theory. It emerged in the mid-20th century to describe the view that evolutionary traits are primarily results of natural selection.
In the news
The author uses this term to describe a scientific approach that views modern political behaviors as evolved traits, though they argue that using this framework to frame 'tribalism' as purely negative is a mistake.
What Many People Get Wrong About Tribalism
Read the full article ↗Psychology Today