ABSTRACT
This chapter explores evidence that as a means of understanding the functional and evolutionary biology of the primates, mathematical models are at least worth their weight in paper. It describes basic idea of mathematical models and the possibilities and the limits of their usefulness. The chapter examines Morphology in Evolutionary Arguments. As morphological arguments for evolutionary conclusions have become better defined, the use of mathematical models in morphology has increased. The chapter explains behavioral taxonomy as behavioral and social characteristics of animals have appeared in evolutionary arguments, mathematical models are needed even more to help keep ideas dynamic and consistent. It discusses “Monkeys en Masse” in casual social groups among human and nonhuman primates exemplify an explicit mathematical characterization of one aspect of social life. This characterization may provide a useful base for comparative evolutionary inferences. Mathematical models of the transmission of malaria require primate studies when monkeys as well as men belong to the reservoir of potential hosts.
