SOC 103 Chapter Notes - Chapter 2: Biological Determinism, Social Darwinism, Bipedalism

• School: Ryerson University
• Department: Sociology
• Course: SOC 103
• Professor: Graeme Metcalf

Document Summary

An instinct is an inborn complex pattern of behaviour that must normally exist in every member of the species, an because it is embedded in the genetic code, cannot be overcome by force of will. Arguments that focus on the centrality of human instincts are an example of biological determinist explanations of human behaviour. Biological determinism theories have been discredited but remain popular because they help maintain the belief that our current social arrangements are unchangeable. Social darwinism the richest and most powerful in any society were meant to succeed because they were most fit, focus on social inequality. In addition, biological determinism focuses on human aggression, competition, and territoriality have a biological basis. An examination of eugenics helps us see that social theories are not just abstract thoughts developed by professors in ivory towers; theories are often used by social groups to further their aims.