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Differential K theory
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<p>In psychology and criminology, Differential <i>K</i> theory is a debunked hypothesis first proposed by Canadian psychologist <a href="/facts/J._Philippe_Rushton/e9CLGoaD">J. Philippe Rushton</a> in 1985, which attempts to apply <a href="/facts/R%2fK_selection_theory/QrfKyXlE"><i>r</i>/<i>K</i> selection theory</a> to <a href="/facts/Human_races/cDPnrdXn">human races</a>. According to Rushton, this theory explains race differences in fertility, IQ, criminality, and sexual anatomy and behavior. The theory also hypothesizes that a single factor, the "<i>K</i> factor", affects multiple population statistics Rushton referred to as "life-history traits". It has been criticized as a key example of <a href="/facts/Scientific_racism/Ug4j9v93">scientific racism</a> and devoid of empirical basis. </p>