testosterone

"[The author] reveals . . . research about testosterone to illuminate the real biology of masculinity and makes the case that understanding this science is critical for social progress"--Provided by publisher.

ANTHROPOLOGY. We inherit mechanisms for survival from our primeval past; none so obviously as those involved in reproduction. The hormone testosterone underlies the organization of activation of masculinity: it changes the body and brain to make a male. It is involved not only in sexuality but in driving aggression, competitiveness, risk-taking - all elements that were needed for successful survival and reproduction in the past. But these ancient systems are carried forward into a modern world. The ancient world shaped the human brain, but the modern world is shaped by that brain. How does this world, with all its cultural, political, and social variations, deal with and control the primeval role of testosterone, which continues to be essential for the survival of the species? Sex, aggression, winning, losing, gangs, war: the powerful effects of testosterone are entwined with them all.--.

Examines the actual effects of testosterone on human behavior, psychology, health, and skills, as opposed to the myths surrounding it; draws upon case studies of more than eight thousand men, women, and children.