Nature Vs. Nurture Debate

5 Pages 1205 Words

Human behaviour can be understood as learned rather than directed by innate, biological drives. Discuss.

In regards to the above statement, sociologist challenge the belief that human behaviour is determined by biological drives (nature) and that this is some how instinctive. The general area of focus for sociologists is social experiences (nurture), and how these experiences direct the shaping of the human identity and behaviour.
This is going to analyse the extent to which sociologists see biology determining behaviour, or whether or not human behaviour is learnt, through the life-long process of socialisation. This will also take a look at a case study of a non - socialised infant. This will bring up some very interesting and complex questions.

The extent to which sociologists see behaviour being determined by biology is questioned. Although they do recognise that biology does determine such things as:
Biological sex - the individuals ‘sex’, male or female (genitalia).
Physical characteristics - hair, skin, or eye colour, height and weight.
Ageing process - physical changes that are associated with ageing.
All of the above are inherited from the parents genes, and can usually be visibly seen. It is true to say that physical appearance is the only non-grey area discussed, because of there clear inheritance through these genes, so sociologists do not and can not deny these.

are such things as drinking, sleeping or resting, taking shelter (e.g. keeping warm or cool), to urinate or defecate. These are seen as a need, not as an instinct, as how, when and where we do these things is dependent on the culture in which we live.

Giddens (1998) states that ’instinct is a complex pattern of behaviour that is genetically determined‘. In everyday language, we use the term instinctively to talk about a common reflex. Example, if someone was to throw a plate at you, you would move out of the w...