The Social Meaning of Modern Biology

From Social Darwinism to Sociobiology

Nonfiction, Science & Nature, Science, Biological Sciences, Biology, Social & Cultural Studies, Social Science, Sociology
Cover of the book The Social Meaning of Modern Biology by Howard Kaye, Taylor and Francis
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Howard Kaye ISBN: 9781351473941
Publisher: Taylor and Francis Publication: July 5, 2017
Imprint: Routledge Language: English
Author: Howard Kaye
ISBN: 9781351473941
Publisher: Taylor and Francis
Publication: July 5, 2017
Imprint: Routledge
Language: English

The Social Meaning of Modern Biology analyzes the cultural significance of recurring attempts since the time of Darwin to extract social and moral guidance from the teachings of modern biology. Such efforts are often dismissed as ideological defenses of the social status quo, of the sort wrongly associated with nineteenth-century social Darwinism. Howard Kaye argues they are more properly viewed as culturally radical attempts to redefine who we are by nature and thus rethink how we should live. Despite the scientific and philosophical weaknesses of arguments that "biology is destiny," and their dehumanizing potential, in recent years they have proven to be powerfully attractive. They will continue to be so in an age enthralled by genetic explanations of human experience and excited by the prospect of its biological control.In the ten years since the original edition of The Social Meaning of Modern Biology was published, changes in both science and society have altered the terms of debate over the nature of man and human culture. Kaye's epilogue thoroughly examines these changes. He discusses the remarkable growth of ethology and sociobiology in their study of animal and human behavior and the stunning progress achieved in neuropsychology and behavioral genetics. These developments may appear to bring us closer to long-sought explanations of our physical, mental, and behavioral "machinery." Yet, as Kaye demonstrates, attempts to use such explanations to unify the natural and social sciences are mired in self-contradictory accounts of human freedom and moral choice. The Social Meaning of Modern Biology remains a significant study in the field of sociobiology and is essential reading for sociologists, biologists, behavioral geneticists, and psychologists.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

The Social Meaning of Modern Biology analyzes the cultural significance of recurring attempts since the time of Darwin to extract social and moral guidance from the teachings of modern biology. Such efforts are often dismissed as ideological defenses of the social status quo, of the sort wrongly associated with nineteenth-century social Darwinism. Howard Kaye argues they are more properly viewed as culturally radical attempts to redefine who we are by nature and thus rethink how we should live. Despite the scientific and philosophical weaknesses of arguments that "biology is destiny," and their dehumanizing potential, in recent years they have proven to be powerfully attractive. They will continue to be so in an age enthralled by genetic explanations of human experience and excited by the prospect of its biological control.In the ten years since the original edition of The Social Meaning of Modern Biology was published, changes in both science and society have altered the terms of debate over the nature of man and human culture. Kaye's epilogue thoroughly examines these changes. He discusses the remarkable growth of ethology and sociobiology in their study of animal and human behavior and the stunning progress achieved in neuropsychology and behavioral genetics. These developments may appear to bring us closer to long-sought explanations of our physical, mental, and behavioral "machinery." Yet, as Kaye demonstrates, attempts to use such explanations to unify the natural and social sciences are mired in self-contradictory accounts of human freedom and moral choice. The Social Meaning of Modern Biology remains a significant study in the field of sociobiology and is essential reading for sociologists, biologists, behavioral geneticists, and psychologists.

More books from Taylor and Francis

Cover of the book In Defence of Empirical Psychology (Psychology Revivals) by Howard Kaye
Cover of the book Remembering the Cold War by Howard Kaye
Cover of the book Routledge Revivals: The Literary Humour of the Urban Northeast 1830-1890 (1983) by Howard Kaye
Cover of the book Group Communication by Howard Kaye
Cover of the book Action Research for Teachers by Howard Kaye
Cover of the book Outcomes: Nvqs And The Emerging Model Of Education And Training by Howard Kaye
Cover of the book Junior and Youth Grassroots Football Culture by Howard Kaye
Cover of the book New Ways in Psychoanalysis by Howard Kaye
Cover of the book Worlds Ago by Howard Kaye
Cover of the book Madrid 1937 by Howard Kaye
Cover of the book Sex, Love, and Romance in the Mass Media by Howard Kaye
Cover of the book Women, Livestock Ownership and Markets by Howard Kaye
Cover of the book Financial Economy by Howard Kaye
Cover of the book Thomas Durfey and Restoration Drama by Howard Kaye
Cover of the book Civil Societies and Social Movements by Howard Kaye
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy