Click the play button below to listen to key figures in the world of sexuality. Each interview provides perspectives from people who have acquired either comprehensive or uniquely specialized knowledge about sexual behavior.

Dr. J. Philippe Rushton

Dr. J. Philippe Rushton (1943-2012) is well known for his work on the r/K model of reproduction, and his application of it to humans. He also explored racial differences in intelligence, criminal behavior and other traits, which resulted in decades of criticism from his scientific peers. From 2002, he was a head of the Pioneer Fund, which was also, as Dr. Rushton was himself, deemed racist. Unfortunately, he is best known for his assertions that sexual and cognitive capacity behavior vary by race. Despite his claims that these conjectures were research based, they ultimately led to criminal charges in Canada. Although these charges were ultimately dismissed, Dr. Rushton became a pariah in field of human reproduction.  Despite the rancor he faced throughout his career, to the end of his life he affirmed that he sought only to advance science.  Dr. Rushton was a professor of psychology at the University of Western Ontario. He died in 2012 of a terminal illness continuing his work until weeks before his death.

Discussion Questions:

1. What is life history theory?
2. What does climate have to do with evolution of humans and r/K selection?
3. According to your opinion, should possible racial differences in intelligence and other traits be scientifically examined and discussed?