Studying Human Behavior

How Scientists Investigate Aggression and Sexuality

Nonfiction, Science & Nature, Science, Other Sciences, Philosophy & Social Aspects, Religion & Spirituality, Philosophy, Mind & Body
Cover of the book Studying Human Behavior by Helen E. Longino, University of Chicago Press
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Helen E. Longino ISBN: 9780226921822
Publisher: University of Chicago Press Publication: January 18, 2013
Imprint: University of Chicago Press Language: English
Author: Helen E. Longino
ISBN: 9780226921822
Publisher: University of Chicago Press
Publication: January 18, 2013
Imprint: University of Chicago Press
Language: English

In Studying Human Behavior, Helen E. Longino enters into the complexities of human behavioral research, a domain still dominated by the age-old debate of “nature versus nurture.” Rather than supporting one side or another or attempting to replace that dichotomy with a different framework for understanding behavior, Longino focuses on how scientists study it, specifically sexual behavior and aggression, and asks what can be known about human behavior through empirical investigation.

 

She dissects five approaches to the study of behavior—quantitative behavioral genetics, molecular behavior genetics, developmental psychology, neurophysiology and anatomy, and social/environmental methods—highlighting the underlying assumptions of these disciplines, as well as the different questions and mechanisms each addresses. She also analyzes efforts to integrate different approaches. Longino concludes that there is no single “correct” approach but that each contributes to our overall understanding of human behavior. In addition, Longino reflects on the reception and transmission of this behavioral research in scientific, social, clinical, and political spheres. A highly significant and innovative study that bears on crucial scientific questions, Studying Human Behavior will be essential reading not only for scientists and philosophers but also for science journalists and anyone interested in the engrossing challenges of understanding human behavior.

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

In Studying Human Behavior, Helen E. Longino enters into the complexities of human behavioral research, a domain still dominated by the age-old debate of “nature versus nurture.” Rather than supporting one side or another or attempting to replace that dichotomy with a different framework for understanding behavior, Longino focuses on how scientists study it, specifically sexual behavior and aggression, and asks what can be known about human behavior through empirical investigation.

 

She dissects five approaches to the study of behavior—quantitative behavioral genetics, molecular behavior genetics, developmental psychology, neurophysiology and anatomy, and social/environmental methods—highlighting the underlying assumptions of these disciplines, as well as the different questions and mechanisms each addresses. She also analyzes efforts to integrate different approaches. Longino concludes that there is no single “correct” approach but that each contributes to our overall understanding of human behavior. In addition, Longino reflects on the reception and transmission of this behavioral research in scientific, social, clinical, and political spheres. A highly significant and innovative study that bears on crucial scientific questions, Studying Human Behavior will be essential reading not only for scientists and philosophers but also for science journalists and anyone interested in the engrossing challenges of understanding human behavior.

More books from University of Chicago Press

Cover of the book Desperately Seeking Certainty by Helen E. Longino
Cover of the book Crime and Justice, Volume 41 by Helen E. Longino
Cover of the book Issues in Law and Economics by Helen E. Longino
Cover of the book Mastering the Niger by Helen E. Longino
Cover of the book The Aims of Higher Education by Helen E. Longino
Cover of the book Mobile Secrets by Helen E. Longino
Cover of the book Organizing Locally by Helen E. Longino
Cover of the book On Knowing--The Natural Sciences by Helen E. Longino
Cover of the book Coming to Mind by Helen E. Longino
Cover of the book Unsettled Belonging by Helen E. Longino
Cover of the book The Chicago Guide to Communicating Science by Helen E. Longino
Cover of the book The Scientific Journal by Helen E. Longino
Cover of the book The Rhapsodes by Helen E. Longino
Cover of the book Consuming Religion by Helen E. Longino
Cover of the book When Peace Is Not Enough by Helen E. Longino
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