Peter France discovers how biologists' hidden prejudices have shaped our attitudes to animals and the interpretation of animal behaviour.
Science seems to reflect changes in our own society, from Victorian values to the rise of feminism. Before the rise of feminism, big showy males were always the centre of attention. Now it is the study of females that is pushing science forward. So can scientists ever be truly objective?
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Choice
Does our image of the dominant-male stag need to be revised in the light of feminist ideas? In olden times, the elephant was notable for its modesty (it was believed to took the other way during intercourse) while the pig was a symbol of lust. In Sex and the Scientist (11.00am R4), Peter France investigates the many, sometimes ludicrous ways in which even apparently objective scientists describe animal sexual behaviour, often using metaphors that reflect whatever philosophy happens to be in vogue. (SG)