Rationally Speaking Podcast Rationally Speaking #64 - Jesse Prinz on Looking Beyond Human Nature
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Jul 1, 2012 In this engaging discussion, Jesse Prinz, a CUNY philosophy professor and author of "Beyond Human Nature," dives into the age-old nature vs. nurture debate. He argues that human behavior is largely shaped by cultural influences rather than just biology. The conversation explores gender differences, the complexities of morality, and the evolution of language acquisition. Prinz also critiques traditional views on empathy, using film to illustrate how cultural narratives reflect and shape moral systems.
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Cultural Influence on Human Behavior
- Jesse Prinz argues human behavior is more culturally shaped than evolutionary psychologists suggest.
- His book, "Beyond Human Nature," explores this by examining cultural psychology and human diversity.
Gender Differences and Culture
- Prinz challenges evolutionary psychology's explanation of gender differences, citing jealousy as an example.
- He argues cultural factors like economic dependence and societal norms better explain observed differences.
Heritability and Environment
- Heritability measures variation linked to biological factors, not genetic determination.
- Environmental uniformity inflates heritability, while varied or unhealthy environments diminish it, as seen with intelligence.
