What is a key characteristic of evolutionary theory in anthropology?

The correct answer highlights the fundamental concept that species adapt through natural selection, which is a core principle of evolutionary theory. This idea, first introduced by Charles Darwin, posits that individuals with traits better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing those advantageous traits on to future generations. In anthropology, this framework is essential for understanding how both physical and cultural traits evolve over time in response to environmental pressures.

Natural selection informs not only biological evolution but also influences cultural adaptations as societies interact with their environments. By recognizing how species and cultural traits adapt through this process, anthropologists can better understand the dynamics of human behavior, societal structures, and cultural developments throughout history.

This understanding contrasts with the notion that cultures evolve in a strictly linear manner, as there are numerous factors that influence cultural change, leading to complex and divergent pathways. Emphasizing cultural inheritance over biological inheritance can overlook the interconnection of both aspects in shaping human societies, and dismissing genetic factors ignores the vital role biology plays in cultural development.