My explanation of the Zahavi*s theory or aka the Handicap Principle goes as follows (I beg forgiveness from those who already know) Waste indicates that an organism has resources to spare. By advertising waste the organism shows it*s success. The waste makes the advertising reliable.
The Zahavi*s used a model for predator prey interactions to explain this theory. The model used was a group of children playing tag. Once someone has been chosen to be "It* the other children who know their limitations and abilities of the child chosen place themselves in different areas of the playing field. Children slower than *It* align themselves along the farthest periphery of "It.* Faster children are closer to "It.* As I recall playing this game, and this is mentioned in the book, there were indeed children fast enough not only to approach "It* with impunity but to say something antagonistic as they were being chased. The lack of stress in their voice while running being affirmation enough for "It* to give up the chase should a chase start. Likewise if the voice shows stress this is an indication to continue. Good strategy involves chasing children farther away not taking such wasteful risks.
I would like to mention two applications of this theory for opinion. Concerning the use of color and pattern, the zebra was specifically mentioned. For many years I believed, as many believe, that zebra stripes are a method of identification within their social groups. The stripes also broke their image as they are viewed through heat waves (The later being controversial). This theory offers another explanation. The stripes indicate the health of the individual. The stripes in this case represent the signal of waste. Atrophied muscles are highlighted by the stripes as wrinkled or close together. Healthy muscle tissue is highlighted as the stripes are gentle curving, thus signaling to the predator which zebra is more likely to be caught.
Another application of this theory I would like to mention is how it is applied to altruism. Simply put, altruistic deeds are a competent signal of waste. Those who take the risk of altruism are rewarded with high prestige. Even if the deed is life threatening this theory can be applied. The greater the risk the greater the reward.
I don*t see how this theory would necessarily conflict with theism. (Although as I type this I*m sure someone will tell me why it does.) I appreciate your opinions and patience with my posts.
The book is, "The Handicap Principle, A Missing Piece Of Darwin*s Puzzle*
by Amotz and Avishag Zahavi, Oxford University Press.
ISBN 0-19-510035-2
Kevin