While Today the Comparative Method Refers to the Testing of Hypotheses

question 44

Multiple Choice

While today the comparative method refers to the testing of hypotheses against a range of human societies, in the 19th century the comparative method:

• A) tested hypotheses only within the same types of societies; in other words, only egalitarian hunter-gatherers of arctic environments, or only stratified desert agriculturalists would be examined.
• B) was a political tool used to argue against the racist idea that some living peoples had made it further up the evolutionary ladder of progress than others.
• C) translated cultural diversity into an evolutionary sequence in which different living peoples represented different stages in humanity's march towards progress.
• D) referred to the same thing; there has been little change in how the comparative method is used since the 19th century.

---

Definitions:

Prosocial Behavior

Actions intended to benefit others, including behaviors like helping, sharing, donating, co-operating, and volunteering.

Self-evaluation

The process of reflecting on one's own abilities, actions, and characteristics to assess and understand one's performance and behavior.

Gender Typing

The process in which young children acquire the characteristics and attitudes that are considered appropriate for their gender.

Socioemotional Immaturity

The state of being underdeveloped in emotional and social skills, impacting interactions and relationships.