The Mating Game: In Search of the Meaning of Sex (Penguin Press Science) [Paperback]

"Are men redundant parasites?" inquire authors of The Mating Game, John Gribbin and Jeremy Cherfas. With their bold claim that "men are parasites on women," the authors explore traditional scientific theories such as natural selection and asexual reproduction and dive into the difficulties of mating imposed by current social cultures. There is little doubt as to the vital role females play in reproduction and rearing of offspring, but how much exactly do males contribute and just how crucial is that contribution? In an attempt to uncover the evolutionary significance of sexual reproduction, detailed analysis of these theories is provided which is closely followed by numerous examples prevalent in the animal kingdom. Topics such as human reproductive anatomy and sexual dimorphism, problems and benefits of sexual promiscuity and homosexuality, and gender roles incite interest on behalf of a sexually intrigued generation as the authors plunge into a scientific discussion of the genetic advantages and disadvantages related to sexual mating.

Written for an older, more highly educated audience, the book may prove useful for science students, skilled professionals, and even those adults who desire a deeper understanding of our evolutionary roots. If subsequent discussion is the primary intent, the book comes highly recommended. However, as the authors attempt to explain concepts such as arrhenotoky, apomixis and automixis, the book becomes less appealing as purely a pleasure read.

The authors make well-founded claims based on scientific evolutionary and social evidence while at the same time provide information for arguing multiple viewpoints. Overall, The Mating Game is a very intriguing, well-written book which takes the reader from the mere definition of sex to its evolutionary purpose, concluding that maybe males aren't socially redundant parasites after all.

Looking for a book that's charged with lustful, descriptive love-making or the best positions to assume for the ultimate orgasm? Do want to learn how to attract a plethora of sexual partners? If you answered yes to either of the above questions then The Mating Game is not for you. John Gribbin and Jeremy Cherfas present the "other" side of sex in their book. This densely-packed text liberally expounds on the subject of sex using new molecular evidence of the close evolutionary relationship between human beings, chimpanzees and gorillas. With meticulous arguments accompanied by copious illustrations, the authors' present some of the more pertinent evolutionary reproductive principles, such as kin selection, Muller's ratchet, and the Red Queen model. The exhibition of science is not limited to evolutionary principles. The authors' successfully incorporate many central biological concepts, including cellular and molecular biology and genetics.

The information is presented in a simple and succinct manner, such that the layperson would easily be captured by their presentation of why sex exists. However, I believe readers should possess a background in some of the basic genetic, ecological, and reproductive disciplines to completely appreciate their views. The layperson, without an understanding of the basics, would definitely struggle in recognizing central biological concepts and become frustrated with having to look-up unknown material. I would most recommend this book for knowledgeable biology students that are looking for a link between many biology classes they have taken. This book allows the reader to incorporate information from all areas and challenges the readers' ability to combine major concepts and to think outside of the box.

The authors' claim that our evolutionary past is directly related to current human behavior is accurate in the fact that it is based on scientific findings; however, issues arise when considering all aspects to the evolutionary puzzle. Some of these claims are not complete and therefore do not support the theory that human sexuality is based on the mating behavior of chimpanzees. The genetic composition, behavioral, and sociological issues within each species must be considered and this aspect of the primates shows a difference.

Although simple and succinct, the writing style is sometimes unclear due to the number of examples used without great transition. The examples are definitely a strength because they help explain some more complicated aspects of biology; however, the continual use of examples was unnecessary at times and distracted from the point attempting to be proven. I found this to be a minor weakness in the book. The authors exemplified a great ability to present their theory and all aspects of their idea. It is obvious that a great amount of thinking and research was combined to create what I find to be a quality text. I highly recommend it.

If you have ever wondered why humans reproduce sexually, why sex is so prevalent, or how reproductive methods differs among societies and species, this book is a must read! In their book, The Mating Game, John Gribbin and Jeremy Cherfas differentiate sex from reproduction and discuss the two in context of evolutionary theory. In particular, the authors concentrate on the evolutionary advantages and benefits of sexual reproduction relative to asexual reproduction, concluding with a discussion on why the human race has yet to do away with redundant males. After all, "Males are simply modified females tailored to a particular role in the reproductive process" (64). The authors explain the different contributions of each gender to the process of sexual reproduction, focusing on concepts such as Muller's ratchet and the Red Queen Hypothesis to provide evidence for the long-term benefits of sexual reproduction. Furthermore, this book compares and contrasts the sexual anatomy and physiology of humans to our primate relatives while exploring shocking facts about sex along the way.

This book is geared towards a readership with a basic background in the sciences who enjoy questioning biological concepts. Yet, if you lack general knowledge in the area of basic biology but are interested in these topics, do not be discouraged! Gribbin and Cherfas do a great job explaining complex biological issues (such as natural selection, the different types of reproduction, and the different mechanisms that produce genetic variation) that assist any reader to comprehend. Thus, while this book serves as a good refresher for a biology student, those lacking a science background will learn about biological processes in an easy-to-read fashion while finding most of the discoveries interesting and amusing.

While I used this book to spark discussion in a college level, biology seminar class, its intended uses may be much wider. Because of its ability present textbook information in a way that is easy and fun to read, this book would compliment the library of any student interested in basic biology, particularly genetics. Yet, the simple layout and excellent flow of this book allow for it also to be read simply for enjoyment.

The facts presented in this book were very accurate and supported by a lengthy list of references for anyone interested in further research. The strengths of this book were it's its easy-to-read, different presentation that most people prefer over an ordinary textbook. In contrast, however, the basic, easy-to-read style of this book might bore some who are interested in the topics discussed but experts in the area of biology.

Overall, the quality of this book was superb. Its easy-to-understand flow and clear and concise descriptions provided an excellent review of what I have learned in the past four years as a biology major. I only wish I had been given this book earlier!