Albinism Is Rare in Most Human Populations, Occurring at a Frequency

question 36

Essay

Albinism is rare in most human populations, occurring at a frequency of about 1 in 20,000 people. However, the trait occurs at a frequency of 1 in 200 in certain Hopi villages of Black Mesa in Arizona. Explain in terms of natural selection why the trait is so much more common among the Hopis of Black Mesa.

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Definitions:

Spiral Model

A software development model that combines elements of both design and prototyping in stages, in an effort to combine advantages of top-down and bottom-up approaches.

Theory-before-research

Theory-before-research is an approach where a theoretical framework is developed prior to conducting empirical research, guiding the research questions and methodology.

Research-before-theory

An approach where empirical observation and data collection precede and guide the development of theory.

Racial Inequality

A disparity in opportunities, rights, and treatment experienced by individuals based solely on their race or ethnicity.