The document discusses sex and gender differences from a biological and social perspective. It notes that sexual dimorphism exists due to natural and sexual selection acting differently on males and females. Reproductive strategies also differ between sexes, with females being more selective and males pursuing a higher quantity of mates. Sexual competition occurs between members of the same sex rather than between sexes. Testosterone influences behaviors but its effects are often exaggerated, and gender is shaped more by socialization than biology alone.

1. SC2220: Gender Studies Biology, Sex and Gender (Continued) Dr. Eric C. Thompson

2. 3. Sex Differences that Matter in (Some) Social Contexts *Sexual Dimorphism *Reproductive Strategies *Sexual Competition *Hormones

14. Biological Differences Matter. But (often) Myths Matter More . Biology is not destiny. Biology is ‘ expressed’ differently in different environments. Gender (social practices and cultural interpretations of sexual biology) is a process we live and a project we construct every day of our lives.