SOME EVOLUTIONARY PSYCHOLOGISTS BELIEVE FLIRTING MAY BE THE FOUNDATION OF WESTERN CIVILIZATION

Flirting is a form of human interaction, usually expressing a sexual or romantic interest in the other person. It can consist of conversation, body language, or brief physical contact. It may be one-sided or reciprocated. The origin of the word flirt is obscure. It has been attributed to the old French "Conter fleurette", which means "to (try to) seduce." Flirting may consist of stylized gestures, language, body language, postures, and physiologic signs. Among these, at least in Western society, are: eye contact, touching one's hair, casual touches, winking, flattery, online chatting, teasing.

According to some evolutionary psychologists, flirting may even be the foundation of civilization as we know it. Flirting is governed by a complex set of unwritten laws of etiquette. We generally obey these unofficial laws instinctively, without being conscious of doing so. Research shows that men find it particularly difficult to interpret the more subtle cues in women's body-language, and tend to mistake friendliness for sexual interest. Flirting is most socially acceptable at parties, in some public settings, usually where alcohol is served – such as bars, pubs, night-clubs, at work, schools, colleges, universities. Many women have a poor body-image, and often underestimate their attractiveness. Some recent studies indicate, for example, that up to 80% of adult women believe that they are too fat and so do not pursue flirting. Men naturally tend to seek women who are younger than them. Women are more likely to favor older males with higher status and earning potential. Women also tend to prefer men who are taller. The eyes are the most important flirting tool, but so is the distance you keep from your intended, and touching as well seems especially important.

How do you ask for follow-up? A simple…”perhaps we could meet again sometime—could I have your phone number", from either the woman or the man is acceptable. Despite the disapproval of 17th-century Puritans, Victorian moralists and their modern-day equivalents in both the moral majority and political correctness camps, these basic flirting instincts persist, and the human species survives