Page 105 - Sociology and You

DNA, the genetic material in all cells, is the molecular basis of heredity. Sociobiology focuses on the relationship between heredity and human behavior.
Malamuth, and Windstad, 1998). The researchers believe this behavior is programmed into the genetic code. Studies have also determined that step- fathers are more likely than biological fathers to abuse their children (Daly and Wilson, 1997). Is this because men are more protective of their own bio- logical offspring? Because of the speed of discoveries in the field of biology, the relationships between heredity, culture, and behavior are of growing interest to sociobiologists.
Section 1 Assessment
1. How is society different from culture?
2. About what percentage of personality is determined by genetics?
3. What are two arguments against the theory of sociobiology?
4. Predict which of the following are drives (D), which are reflexes (R), which are instincts (I), and which are creations of culture (C).
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a. eye blinking in dust storm b. need for sleep
c. reaction to a loud noise
Critical Thinking
d. socialism
e. reproduction
f. racial inequality
5. SynthesizingInformation Namethreenonmaterialandthreemater- ial elements that represent American culture to you.
6. Making Generalizations Do you think human behavior is more a result of culture or of heredity? Give reasons to support your answer.
Chapter 3 Culture
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Men’s natures are alike; it is their habits that carry them apart.
Confucius Chinese philosopher
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