reproductive success

the degree to which an individual is successful in producing progeny that in turn are able to produce progeny of their own. Individuals vary in their success in finding mates and reproducing successfully. Natural selection is based on this differential reproductive success. The genetic and behavioral traits that lead to greatest reproductive success survive in a population over generations, whereas traits producing low reproductive success eventually become extinct. See also inclusive fitness.

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Psychology term of the day

December 19th 2024

Thanatos

n. the personification of death and the brother of Hypnos (sleep) in Greek mythology, whose name was chosen by Sigmund Freud to designate a theoretical set of strivings oriented toward the reduction of tension and life activity (see death instinct). In Freud’s dual instinct theory, Thanatos is seen as involved in a dialectic process with Eros (love), the striving toward sexuality, continued development, and heightened experience (see life instinct). See also nirvana principle.