Biological determinism

Definition

Biological determinism is the belief that human behavior and social phenomena are primarily determined by biological factors, including genetics and physiological characteristics. It posits that aspects of human culture, identity, and social status are rooted in innate biological differences rather than cultural or environmental influences.

Related terms

Gender Essentialism: The belief that men and women have inherent, unique, and natural attributes that qualify them for different roles in society.

Sociobiology: A field of study that examines social behavior from an evolutionary perspective, often discussing how evolution has shaped behaviors in both animals and humans.

Nature vs. Nurture Debate: An ongoing discussion concerning the relative importance of an individual's innate qualities ("nature") versus personal experiences ("nurture") in determining or causing differences in physical and behavioral traits