What is proximate hypothesis?

The proximate hypothesis refers to explanations that focus on the immediate, underlying mechanisms or causes of a phenomenon. In biological contexts, it often addresses how behaviors, traits, or processes occur based on genetic, physiological, and environmental factors. This contrasts with ultimate hypotheses, which seek to explain the evolutionary reasons behind a trait or behavior. Essentially, proximate hypotheses answer "how" something happens, while ultimate hypotheses address "why" it has evolved.