BIO 445 - THE BIOLOGY OF SEX

College of Arts & Sciences

Credit(s): 3

What is sex? Who has sex? What is sex for? This course is about the biological aspects of sex and gender, two of the most powerful forces in nature. We will explore the early evolution of sexual exchange of DNA and the emergence of genders. We will also discover the mechanisms by which gender is assigned across a vast array of different organisms and the amazing variability of sexual activity, ranging from duplicitous orchids to the rapacious passions of giant squid. Ultimately, we will explore the biological aspects of human sexuality in the context of its evolutionary origins and compare them to our closest relatives, the great apes. Readings in journal articles and a book will be complemented by short videos and discussions. This course is a Graduation Composition and Communication Requirement (GCCR) course in certain programs, and hence is not likely to be eligible for automatic transfer credit to UK.

Prereq: BIO 148 and BIO 152 or equivalent, or consent of instructor.