This book investigates the evolutionary origins of human aesthetic preferences and artistic behaviors, questioning whether these traits are biological adaptations or cultural byproducts. Stephen Davies, a philosopher of art, synthesizes research from evolutionary biology, psychology, and anthropology to construct a framework that evaluates art as a manifestation of human nature. He challenges traditional theories that link beauty exclusively to mate selection and explores the deep-time development of aesthetic responses in ancestral humanoids.

Scholars and critics frequently note the clarity of Davies's philosophical arguments and his ability to bridge the gap between evolutionary science and art theory. Experts highlight this as a significant contribution to the field of evolutionary aesthetics for both academic and informed lay readers.