Why Dad's matter more than we think
Sun Feb 01 2026
Fatherhood is one of the most misunderstood and underestimated forces shaping human connection.
Evolutionary anthropologist Dr Anna Machin breaks down the science of fatherhood and explains why dads play a far more powerful role in relationships, child development, and emotional wellbeing than we often acknowledge.
She unpacks the biology, psychology and culture behind love, attraction and long-term connection. Drawing on science, neuroscience and real-world research, Anna explains why we’re drawn to certain people, how technology and dating apps are reshaping intimacy, and what we misunderstand about commitment in today’s fast-moving world.
She discusses:
The biological and emotional forces that drive attractionHow dating apps and technology are rewiring modern loveThe underestimated role of fatherhood in human connectionWhy nurturing all forms of love is essential for wellbeingThe emerging challenge of AI and human relationships
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Fatherhood is one of the most misunderstood and underestimated forces shaping human connection. Evolutionary anthropologist Dr Anna Machin breaks down the science of fatherhood and explains why dads play a far more powerful role in relationships, child development, and emotional wellbeing than we often acknowledge. She unpacks the biology, psychology and culture behind love, attraction and long-term connection. Drawing on science, neuroscience and real-world research, Anna explains why we’re drawn to certain people, how technology and dating apps are reshaping intimacy, and what we misunderstand about commitment in today’s fast-moving world. She discusses: The biological and emotional forces that drive attractionHow dating apps and technology are rewiring modern loveThe underestimated role of fatherhood in human connectionWhy nurturing all forms of love is essential for wellbeingThe emerging challenge of AI and human relationships