nature-nurture debate


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nature-nurture debate

the debate surrounding the question of to what extent behaviour is the result of hereditary or innate influences (nature), or is determined by environment and learning (nurture). Assessing the relative contributions of each is extremely difficult, since both interact continually throughout development. Historically each side of the debate has had its support, nativists believing in hereditary determination and empiricists in the dominance of the environment. See also CHILD DEVELOPMENT, INTELLIGENCE.
Collins Dictionary of Sociology, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2000
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Here the Nature part of the Nature-Nurture debate plays a vital role.
One for the non-conformists
The type of research investigation that perhaps was most directly relevant to the nature-nurture debate and that became quite popular during this time was the twin study.
Nature vs. nurture: 50 years of a popular debate
We await the next round most eagerly, even if the fight (like the nature-nurture debate itself) is destined to end in a draw.--John T.
Alfano, Mark. Character as Moral Fiction
Detailing the discoveries and controversies associated with the Minnesota Study Of Twins Reared Apart, Segal (humanities, twin studies, California State U.) provides a compelling overview of her experience with the MISTRA and its scientific contributions to twin research and the nature-nurture debate. Chapters in this comprehensive account include twins' life stories, the history of twin research, and the findings of genetic influence on physiological characteristics.
Born together--reared apart; the landmark Minnesota twin study
In this short study of the nature-nurture debate, Evelyn Fox Keller explores the persistent argument about the degree to which phenotypic characteristics of organisms are due to genetic causes and to environmental causes.
Evelyn Fox Keller: The Mirage of a Space Between Nature and Nurture
Following the review of his book in the New York Times, Freeman appeared on an episode of the Donahue show on March 18, 1983, during which Freeman discussed his views on the nature-nurture debate and during which fellow anthropologist of Western Samoan culture, Bradd Shore, critiqued Freeman's book, criticizing it for relying on personal attacks of Mead and for its failure to provide practical feedback regarding how to build, improve, or make a stronger the type of anthropological work (35).
Paul Shankman. The Trashing of Margaret Mead: Anatomy of an Anthropological Controversy
"This model helps to resolve the nature-nurture debate. Effective parents are taking nature into account in their nurturing.
Parental guidance key to boost child's strengths
Heckman delves into behavioral genetic studies, which have indicated that the nature-nurture debate is over.
An ounce of prevention
Harris, a journalist, seeks answers beyond the nature-nurture debate, which she views as insufficient for explaining the development of personality.
No Two Alike: Human Nature and Human Individuality
Gustav Holst is a fascinating example of the much wider nature-nurture debate. Born in Cheltenham, in 1874, he was of Swedish origin.
Peter Elson: Appeal of melodies is dependent on the listener's nationality
It is argued that the progression from the nature-nurture debate to interactionist perspectives, to a further consideration of nature and nurture as working as 1 system, represents a more refined and deeper understanding of the role of nature and nurture in the development of exceptional competence.
Introduction to the special issue on nature, nurture, and the development of exceptional competence
In the interwar period, the nature-nurture debate had taken a decisive turn toward nurture.
The paradoxical rationalization of modern adoption

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