An Evolutionary Explanation of the Madonna-Whore Complex
Authors
- Steven Hertler
- Affiliated with Saint Elizabeth University, Morristown, NJ, USA
- Mateo Peraherrera-Aguirre
- Affiliated with University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Aurelio Jos Figueredo
- Affiliated with University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
Abstract Overview
- Madonna-Whore Complex:
- A psychological concept where males categorize females as either chaste Madonnas or promiscuous whores.
- Rooted in male psychology and influences female sexuality.
- Theoretical Perspectives:
- Freudian: A form of sexual dissociation.
- Feminist: Stemming from power imbalances.
- Postmodern: A Western cultural artifact of patriarchal oppression.
- Evolutionary Perspective:
- Viewed as an evolved psychological trait due to paternal uncertainty.
- Links to male mating strategies (short- and long-term).
- Considered in terms of biological underpinnings of sexual conflict.
Key Arguments and Ideas
- Paternal Uncertainty:
- Drives the development of the Madonna-Whore complex.
- Forces males into different mating strategies to cope with the risk of cuckoldry.
- Sexual Conflict:
- Seen as mutual conflict rather than one-sided oppression.
- Females engaging in extra-pair copulations threaten males.
- Understanding this as a natural extension of human mating interests.
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Notes on Theoretical Context
- Religious and Cultural Implications:
- The theological doctrine has historically promoted the dichotomization of female sexuality.
- References:
- Various scholarly articles and books are cited to support the argument.
- Related Theories:
- Concepts of sociosexuality and evolutionary psychology are discussed.
Conclusion
- The Madonna-Whore complex, when viewed through an evolutionary lens, provides insights into male-female dynamics.
- It highlights the evolutionary pressures and conflicts that shape human mating behaviors and strategies.
- Moves the discussion from cultural to biological understandings of human sexual behavior.
Ethical and Access Information
- Ethics Approval: Not applicable
- Consent to Participate: Not applicable
- Consent for Publication: Jointly granted
- Conflict of Interest: None declared
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Keywords
- Madonna-Whore Complex, Evolutionary Psychology, Sexual Conflict, Paternal Uncertainty, Mating Strategies
Citation
Published: September 2023