Masculinity vs. femininity

[AfroSoul]

I've read a few interesting articles about evolutionary psychology as it applies to dating/relationship preferences.



From what I've read, women are attracted to good looking, 'masculine' men because, since testosterone depresses the immune system and raises cholesterol (among other adverse health affects, this is probably one of the reasons why women tend to live longer than men do), a man who appears to have high levels of testosterone but also appears to be in good health most likely has exceptionally good genes. Men with higher levels of testosterone tend to be more fertile as well. However (according to the articles I've read), women prefer very masculine men only when it comes to wild, sexual affairs (especially when they are ovulating and at their most fertile) but they prefer more 'feminine', sensitive men when it comes to long-term relationships because they tend to make better partners and better fathers (they also tend to have better long-term health, all other factors considered). In fact, other studies have shown that even just being in a romantic relationship lowers a man's testosterone levels.



I've also read that men prefer baby/feminine faced women because they tend to have lower levels of estrogen (during puberty, testosterone 'masculinizes' facial features in both boys and girls) and thus, they tend to be more fertile. Curvy hips, thick thighs and thick buttocks are also signs of high estrogen. Women (supposedly) are attracted to baby/feminine faced men for the reasons I mentioned earlier. Apparently, women with higher levels of testosterone are more likely to cheat so men are ('generally') hardwired to avoid women that appear to have higher levels of testosterone for long-term relationships as well.



I think these studies are overly simplistic, they are based on generalizations which can lead to stereotypes and prejudice against the opposite sex. All the same, it would be interesting to know how many people their claims actually apply to. In terms of both appearance and personality, do you prefer men and women with extremely masculine and feminine features, men and women with 'feminine' and 'masculine' ('dominant' might be a better word) features or an appropriate mix of the two?

[NEPHEW]

Sorry, dawg! Wrong site. Every female in here wants Boris Kodjoe, if they are not sucessful in that quest, they will settle to share Brad Pitt with Angelina Jolie.

As for the rest of the men, we are currently forming alliances against Boris and Brad. I dont mean to derail your thread, but from my perception of NR, this is just too deep [philosophically] for folks on here.

[Isi eri]

Originally Posted by NEPHEW

Sorry, dawg! Wrong site. Every female in here wants Boris Kodjoe, if they are not sucessful in that quest, they will settle to share Brad Pitt with Angelina Jolie.

As for the rest of the men, we are currently forming alliances against Boris and Brad. I dont mean to derail your thread, but from my perception of NR, this is just too deep [philosophically] for folks on here.

- who is this DID? LOL