We agree that some evaluation of sampling bias should be possible based on a better understanding of the Darwin Awards data collection methods. If the observed sex difference proves to be robust to sampling and other systematic biases then a complete explanation of male idiotic risk taking behaviour would be incomplete without addressing the evolutionary basis of such a sex difference. If real, we suspect that differences in attitudes to idiotic risks might be based in the reproductive strategies of males and females.
Competing interests:
No competing interests
28 January 2015
Dennis W Lendrem
Project Manager
Newcastle University
The Medical School, Framlington Place, Newcastle NE2 4HH
Rapid Response:
Thanks to Arne Ring for valuable suggestions.
We agree that some evaluation of sampling bias should be possible based on a better understanding of the Darwin Awards data collection methods. If the observed sex difference proves to be robust to sampling and other systematic biases then a complete explanation of male idiotic risk taking behaviour would be incomplete without addressing the evolutionary basis of such a sex difference. If real, we suspect that differences in attitudes to idiotic risks might be based in the reproductive strategies of males and females.
Competing interests: No competing interests