Decoding the Human Blueprint: David C. Geary on Evolution, Sex Differences, and the Future of Intelligence

Welcome to Superhumanize. Today, we’re diving deep with one of the world’s leading minds in cognitive and evolutionary psychology—Professor David C. Geary. A Curators’ Distinguished Professor at the University of Missouri, David has reshaped our understanding of how evolution molds everything from mathematical cognition to the nuanced differences between male and female brains. He’s the author of groundbreaking works like Male, Female: The Evolution of Human Sex Differences and The Origin of Mind, challenging us to reconsider what we really know about intelligence and behavior.

Imagine if the way you think, learn, and even interact was written into your very biology—what does that mean for our future, for education, and for the way we see each other? Today, we unpack those provocative questions and more. Get ready for an enlightening conversation that’s sure to stretch your mind and spark new insights into the power and potential of human evolution.

Episode highlights:

01:15 Meet Professor David C. Geary

02:06 Evolutionary Origins of Cognitive Abilities

03:14 Social Competition and Cooperation

11:50 Gender Dynamics and Evolution

22:23 Modern Challenges and Technological Evolution

34:21 Educational Systems and Gender Differences

39:13 Health Outcomes and Evolutionary Vulnerabilities

47:09 Future Research and Closing Thoughts

Resources mentioned:

Male, Female: The Evolution of Human Sex Differences

The Origin of Mind: Evolution of Brain, Cognition, and General Intelligence