The Biological Basis of Human Behavior : A Critical Review

This collection of 59 recent studies on the biological basis of human behavior explores the questions of whether the behavioral patterns we see are genetically fixed or racially variable. It offers a broad perspective from many disciplines -- plus a critical evaluation of whether experts are now better able to answer these questions or whether this renewed interest is just a resurgence of the old racism and biological determinism of the past. The articles stimulate readers to think about the questions and read -- with a critical eye -- those writers who believe they have found a simple and simplistic answer to these very complex problems. Illustrates the growing awareness of the complex interrelationships between environmental and cultural influences on behavior in humans and other animals. Covers areas such as evolution, humans, and primates; the biological basis of human behavior; the biological basis of race and racism; the new Biological Determinism; the brain, hormones, and human behavior. Includes popular, scientific, good and bad approaches to the same themes. Uses critical examples which carefully evaluate alternate approaches, and evaluates the data available to reach various conclusions -- or lack thereof. For anyone interested in the biological basis of human behavior.