Evolution and proximate expression of human paternal investment

In more than 95% of mammalian species, males provide little direct investme nt in the well-being of their offspring. Humans are one notable exception t o this pattern and, to date, the factors that contributed to the evolution and the proximate expression of human paternal care are unexplained (T. H. Clutton-Brock, 1989). The nature, extent, and influence of human paternal i nvestment on the physical and social well-being of children are reviewed in light of the social and ecological factors that are associated with patern al investment in other species. On the basis of this review, discussion of the evolution and proximate expression of human paternal investment is prov ided.