Scientific Theories and Nature vs. Nurture

Paper Summary:

This paper examines the nature versus nurture debate. The paper illustrates the differences in interpretations of this debate, by discussing theories developed by Freud, Erikson and Darwin. The paper contends that although much progress has been made through scientific research on such things as genetics (especially with regard to identical twin studies), there is still much that is unknown. The paper assesses that the truth lies somewhere in the middle of the nature/nurture continuum. The paper agrees that there is evidence in support of both sides of the issue.
Outline
A Brief Introduction
Human Nature and Personality
Intellectual Development
Social Development
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"For hundreds, perhaps thousands of years, people have wondered just what role "nature," or one's inherent traits from birth, and "nurture," or the role one's environment (physical, cultural, social, and familial) plays in one's physical and psychological identity. In modern times, especially since the discovery of genetics and DNA, this has become even more of a question for debate and study. Although there have been many differing interpretations of the nature vs. nurture question, the two extremes that are commonly cited are represented by the Darwinian Theory (nature), and the Freudian Theory (nurture). Although the complete truth regarding the issue is far but definitively decided, many today in science, psychology, anthropology and medicine believe the issue is far more complex than any one theory. However, as science progresses, it has become clear that the "nature" aspect of human development is far stronger than previously suspected."

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