The publication of Why We Get Sick in 1995 marked a shift in medical thought by applying the principles of natural selection to clinical symptoms. Randolph M. Nesse, a trained psychiatrist and physician, co-authored this foundational work with George C. Williams, establishing a framework that frames disease vulnerabilities as products of evolutionary trade-offs rather than simple biological malfunctions.
Academic Foundation and Early Career
Nesse studied at Carleton College between 1966 and 1970 before enrolling at the University of Michigan Medical School, where he received his M.D. in 1974. Following his residency, he began a long tenure at the University of Michigan in 1977. Rising through the academic ranks, he became an instructor of psychiatry, an assistant professor in 1979, an associate professor in 1985, and finally a full professor by 1993. During these years, he also held a professorship in psychology and led the Evolution and Human Adaptation Program, while helping to establish one of the world's earliest clinics dedicated to anxiety disorders.
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The collaboration between Nesse and biologist George C. Williams catalyzed the growth of evolutionary medicine. Their research scrutinized how natural selection shapes mechanisms governing fever, pain, and anxiety. Nesse focused extensively on emotional regulation and the prevalence of psychological disorders, applying these evolutionary perspectives to topics such as low mood, panic, and agoraphobia.
Transition to Arizona State University
After achieving professor emeritus status at the University of Michigan in 2013, Nesse moved to Arizona State University in 2014. At this institution, he serves as the Founding Director of the Center for Evolution and Medicine and holds the positions of professor of life sciences and ASU Foundation Professor. His professional contributions have been recognized through various fellowships, including membership in the Association for Psychological Science and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Fast facts
- Born: 1948
- Education: Carleton College (1966-1970); University of Michigan Medical School (1974)
- Notable Book: Why We Get Sick: The New Science of Darwinian Medicine (1995)
- Primary Field: Evolutionary Psychiatry
- Academic Roles: Professor Emeritus, University of Michigan; Founding Director, Center for Evolution and Medicine, ASU
- Awards: Friend of Darwin (2025); Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (2017)
Questions readers ask
What is the core premise of Nesse's work on depression?
Nesse explores whether low mood and emotional disorders represent evolved responses that, while painful, may have served specific functions under environmental pressures.
What is the primary contribution of the book Why We Get Sick?
The book established the field of evolutionary medicine by explaining that many human vulnerabilities to disease exist because natural selection favors reproductive fitness over long-term physical health.
Achievements
- Held posts at University of Michigan, Arizona State University and University of Michigan
- Fields: physician
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