Question

The debate between nature and nurture has been a prevalent one for decades between psychologists, sociologists and other experts. Based on what you have learned in chapter 7 of the text, 1. which element-nature or nurture- do you believe has the most influence over a persons life? and 2. Which aspect do you believe has impacted your life the most? In a brief paper (350-500 words)

Answer 1

Note: This response is in UK English, please paste the response to MS Word and you should be able to spot discrepancies easily. You may elaborate the answer based on personal views or your classwork if necessary.

(Answer) The term “nurture” would generally refer to the environmental factors that mould and shape our personality and emotional state. This term is closely linked to Sociology. The term “nature” refers to the inherent temperament that each individual is born with. This term is closely studied in Psychology.

Psychologists and Sociologists have debated for a long time whether the environmental or the inherent factors play a role in shaping one’s emotional state. However, recent studies have proved that both “nature” and “nurture” might be equally responsible in shaping an individual’s personality.

For instance, let us assume that John and Jane are siblings of the same household. They have been brought up by the same parents who did not show any particular preference to just one child. They were both given the same love and attention, had the same religion, same schools, same vacations and similar family traditions. On an emotional and personal level, John is a bit more impatient than Jane and Jane is a little more cunning than John. On a social level, they have the same principals concerning humanity, politics and have similar etiquettes in public and in relationships they maintain. This is because they were taught to behave with consideration and respect.

Even though John and Jane might have the same principles, they have different personalities, moods and temperaments. This is because nature and nurture have both played a significant role in the assimilation of their personalities. Considering which perspective has the most impact it is surely both. This is because the impact something might have on our life is dependent on how it shapes our choices and convictions. What we have learned from nature and nurture might both intermittently influence our beliefs and decisions. Most of these influencers might even exist on the “ego” and “superego” levels of the mind.

Personally, the decisions that one makes in their conscious and subconscious mind is the product of one’s instincts and social influences. It cannot be easily scored as to which one might be more dominant.