The parasite-stress theory posits that there is a strong link between the prevalence of infectious diseases and the development of certain cultural practices, institutions, and values. This theory has been explored in various fields, including psychology, sociology, and anthropology, and is also known as the pathogen-stress theory or the germ theory of culture. Some possible synonyms for the parasite-stress theory include the disease-related cultural evolution hypothesis, the ecological basis of social behavior theory, and the pathogen-driven culture theory. These different terms highlight different aspects of the theory and its interdisciplinary nature. Overall, the parasite-stress theory provides a useful framework for understanding the complex interplay between biology, culture, and human behavior.