The authors provide the text of a UPI story describing the discovery of the bones of a disabled dwarf in a cave in northern Italy. The reporters speculate that over 12,000 years ago, early hominids would take care of the disabled members of their group. __________ would argue that the bones belonged to a dwarf who was related to the other cave inhabitants, whereas __________ would argue that the other inhabitants relied on the dwarf for some unknown purpose.
A) Social exchange theorists; evolutionary theorists
B) Evolutionary theorists; social exchange theorists
C) Social psychologists; evolutionary theorists
D) Social exchange theorists; social psychologists

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Evolutionary theorists would argue that the other inhabitants relied on the dwarf for some unknown purpose, as they would have only helped those whose presence in the group increased the group's survival chances. Social exchange theorists, on the other hand, would suggest that the bones belonged to a dwarf who was related to the other cave inhabitants, as they would have helped family members out of a sense of obligation. Social psychologists do not necessarily have a clear theory in this matter, and social exchange theorists and social psychologists both focus more on interpersonal relationships than on evolutionary adaptations. Therefore, option B is the best choice.

The Authors Provide the Text of a UPI Story Describing