Sexual dynamics are the ways that humans interact with each other through sexual activity and desire. They can include physical intimacy such as kissing, touching, and intercourse, but also emotional connections such as trust, affection, and loyalty. Sexual dynamics can influence decisions about resources in several ways.
People may feel obligated to give more resources to partners they have had sexual relations with. This is called "hidden favoritism." Hidden favoritism occurs when someone gives preferential treatment to a person based on their status within a relationship rather than on their actual merits.
A boss may choose to hire his mistress's brother instead of an equally qualified candidate because he wants to stay on good terms with his lover. Similarly, a parent might buy her son a new car even though she does not have enough money for all of her children. Favoritism may be hidden because it often happens behind closed doors, out of view of others who could challenge or criticize it. It can also be hard to prove since the reasons given for resource allocation may seem justified by the recipient.
Sexual dynamics do not always lead to hidden favoritism. In fact, some studies suggest that women tend to be less affected by sexual dynamics in making resource allocation decisions. Women are generally more likely to evaluate applicants objectively without considering personal relationships or sex appeal. This means that they may make fairer decisions about allocating resources than men.
People who are openly polyamorous (having multiple sexual or romantic partners) may be less prone to hidden favoritism since they would need to allocate resources fairly among everyone involved.
Understanding how sexual dynamics affect resource allocation is essential for creating a fair and just society. By acknowledging the potential role of sexuality in decision-making, we can work towards eliminating hidden favoritism and ensuring that resources are allocated equitably.
How might sexual dynamics contribute to hidden favoritism in resource allocation?
One potential way that sexual dynamics can contribute to hidden favoritism in resource allocation is through the phenomenon of "mate poaching. " This occurs when one partner in a relationship pursues another person for romantic or sexual reasons, often at the expense of their current partner. In such situations, the poached individual may feel obligated to provide special treatment or attention to the new interest, which could lead them to prioritize that person's needs over those of their existing partner.