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Right... but humans have a much richer way of signaling than most animals. My point is that some humans will find ways to signal commitment without sinking thr
by dietrichepp 12y ago
Right... but humans have a much richer way of signaling than most animals. My point is that some humans will find ways to signal commitment without sinking three months of their salary into a worthless rock. Signalling theory is an explanation for observed behavior, not a guarantee that such behavior will persist if the organisms in question develop alternative strategies.
I like to think humans are pretty good at developing alternative strategies.
Besides, if you get divorced, you don't get your down payment back anyway.
- facepalm 12y agoSure, as I said in another comment, diamonds could probably be replaced. But it would probably be by something just as useless. Or maybe if you can find a way to mimic the effect, but make it useful, you have your hands on a very valuable startup idea. I guess it would be something like helping friends move, which is considered a good signal for true friendship. I don't know (not an expert on this), maybe if you find a way to "help your spouse move" for the equivalent worth of 3 months of your salary, you are good. Why don't you get your down payment back if you get divorced?