Fascinating discussion of diversity in gender and sexuality among fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals, including primates explaining how this diversity develops from the action of genes and hormones and how people come to differ from each other in all aspects of body and behaviour. Roughgarden reconstructs primary science in light of feminist, gay, and transgender criticism and redefines our understanding of sex, gender, and sexuality. She argues that principal elements of Darwinian sexual selection theory are false and suggests a new theory that emphasizes social inclusion and control of access to resources and mating opportunity.
New paperback edition with a new preface (2009).
Joan Roughgarden is Professor of Biological Sciences at Stanford University. She is the author of several books, including Evolution and Christian Faith: Reflections of an Evolutionary Biologist.
"Thought-provoking [...] Profound [...] Combines the combustible power of a keen intellect with powerful conviction and ethical courage."
– American Scientist
"Throws open the animal kingdom's closet doors."
– The Advocate
"As a compendium of information on sex and gender diversity in the natural world, Roughgarden's is the richest and most authoritative book available."
– Nature
"A fun read with laudable politics."
– Out Magazine