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Maynard Smith: amplifying the reasons for signal reliability

journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-08, 05:08 authored by D G C Harper
One of the many questions to which John Maynard Smith contributed was that of why most animal signals are reliable. He initially rejected the handicap argument but gradually accepted it, a process I briefly describe. This episode illustrated his preference for mathematical models over verbal ones, and the generosity with which he could change his mind. Even after accepting that some signals are reliable because of their strategic costs, he argued for a pluralistic approach to signal reliability. Signal complexity was a developing interest when he died. Signals usually involve several components, some of which appear to amplify other signal components. The terms amplifier and index require more thought to reduce the scope for semantic confusion. I conclude by describing Maynard Smith's fascination with peacocks Pavo cristatus.

History

Publication status

  • Published

Journal

Journal of Theoretical Biology

ISSN

0022-5193

Publisher

Elsevier

Issue

2

Volume

239

Page range

203-209

Pages

7.0

Department affiliated with

  • Evolution, Behaviour and Environment Publications

Full text available

  • No

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2012-02-06

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