Biological determinism

Definition

Biological determinism is the belief that human behavior and characteristics are largely determined by genetic and biological factors rather than environmental influences or individual choices. This idea suggests that aspects such as intelligence, criminality, and social roles can be attributed to an individual's biology, often leading to controversial implications in various fields, including literature, psychology, and sociology.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Biological determinism gained popularity in the late 19th century, particularly as a result of the influence of Charles Darwin's theories on evolution and natural selection.
2. In literature, biological determinism can be seen in works that portray characters as products of their genetic inheritance, often depicting predetermined outcomes based on their biological makeup.
3. Critics of biological determinism argue that it neglects the significant role of environmental factors, culture, and personal experiences in shaping individuals' lives.
4. Literary movements such as Naturalism reflect themes of biological determinism by emphasizing the influence of heredity and environment on human behavior and societal outcomes.
5. The application of biological determinism in literature has been contentious, raising ethical questions about its implications for understanding free will and human agency.

Review Questions

• How does biological determinism relate to the themes presented in Naturalist literature?
  • Biological determinism is closely tied to Naturalist literature, which often focuses on the idea that individuals are shaped by their heredity and environment. In Naturalist works, characters frequently find themselves constrained by their biological inheritance, suggesting that their fates are predetermined by factors beyond their control. This perspective emphasizes a deterministic view of human behavior, portraying life's struggles as influenced by innate characteristics rather than personal choices.
• What are the ethical implications of adopting a biological determinist perspective in understanding human behavior in literature?
  • Adopting a biological determinist perspective raises ethical concerns regarding the potential for justifying social inequalities and stigmatizing individuals based on their perceived genetic traits. This viewpoint can lead to fatalistic attitudes toward certain groups or behaviors, ignoring the complexity of human experience shaped by social context and individual agency. Such implications challenge the notion of free will in character development and societal dynamics within literary works.
• Evaluate how the concept of biological determinism has evolved since its inception and its ongoing impact on contemporary literature.
  • Since its emergence in the late 19th century alongside Darwinian theory, biological determinism has evolved through various interpretations and critiques. Today, while some literary works continue to explore themes of genetics influencing identity and behavior, there is a growing recognition of the interplay between biology and environmental factors. This evolution reflects a broader shift toward acknowledging complexity in human experiences, encouraging writers to challenge simplistic notions of genetic destiny and highlight narratives that emphasize resilience, choice, and social context.

Related terms

Social Darwinism: A theory that applies the concept of 'survival of the fittest' from Darwin's evolution theory to social and economic issues, suggesting that certain social groups are naturally superior to others.

Genetic essentialism: The belief that genes determine not only physical traits but also complex behaviors and social roles, often leading to oversimplified views of human nature.

Nature vs. Nurture: A debate concerning the relative importance of genetics (nature) and environment (nurture) in shaping human behavior and personality.