Nature Season 12 Episode 7 The Nature of Sex: Sex and the Human Animal (4)

The Nature of Sex: Sex and the Human Animal (4) is the seventh episode of the twelfth season of the popular television show, Nature. This episode is an exploration of human sexuality and how it relates to the natural world. It delves into the complex and sometimes contradictory behaviors of non-human animals and how these behaviors can help us understand more about our own sexual behaviors.

The episode begins with a discussion of how ancient Greek and Roman scholars looked at sex as something natural and even celebrated it in art and literature. However, in later centuries, sex became something shameful and taboo. This taboo was particularly strong in the Victorian era, where sex was only viewed as a necessary activity for procreation. Today, we have a more open attitude towards sexuality, and as the episode shows, many non-human animals possess complex sexual behaviors that can help us understand our own.

The episode explores the diversity of sexual behaviors in the animal kingdom. For example, some animals are monogamous while others are not. Some animals are promiscuous while others engage in same-sex behaviors. The episode looks at how these behaviors have evolved to serve specific reproductive and survival functions.

The episode also addresses the concept of sexual selection, where an individual's ability to attract a mate affects their reproductive success. This concept can be seen in the elaborate and often bizarre mating rituals of some animals, such as the peacock's impressive display of feathers.

The show also explores the psychological aspects of human sexuality, such as sexual attraction and arousal. It looks at how these feelings are influenced by cultural and social factors, as well as individual experiences. The episode features interviews with psychologists and other experts who discuss the various theories of sexual behavior and attraction.

Throughout the episode, viewers are presented with fascinating examples of animal sexuality. From the male kangaroo that engages in aggressive "boxing" matches to attract females to the female hyena that engages in "pseudosexual" behaviors with her male counterparts, the animal kingdom offers a diverse range of sexual behaviors that can teach us much about our own.

The episode concludes with a discussion of sexual behavior in humans. It explores the concept of sexual orientation and how it relates to genetics and biology. The show interviews scientists who are researching the genetic and hormonal factors that may influence sexual orientation.

Overall, The Nature of Sex: Sex and the Human Animal (4) is an engaging and informative exploration of human sexuality and how it relates to the natural world. The show presents a wealth of information about the diverse sexual behaviors of animals and how they can help us understand our own. The episode is sure to spark fascinating discussions and debates among viewers, and it is a must-watch for anyone interested in the science of sex.