Summary
Behaviour results from interaction of genes and environment, not one alone.
In depth
Behaviours range from highly innate to highly learned. Cross-fostering and twin studies separate effects. Gene-environment interaction means genes influence how experience shapes behaviour.
The false dichotomy is replaced by norms of reaction: the same genotype gives different phenotypes in different environments. Cross-fostering studies show how experience modifies innate tendencies.
Key idea: nearly all behaviour reflects both genes and environment, working together.
Frequently asked questions
What is Nature vs Nurture?
Behaviour results from interaction of genes and environment, not one alone.
Which area of biology covers Nature vs Nurture, and how advanced is it?
Nature vs Nurture is one of the 53 topics in Animal Behaviour. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Behavioural Genetics, Migration Behaviour, Innate Behaviour.
Can you give an example of Nature vs Nurture?
Blackcap warblers' migration direction is heritable, shown by breeding experiments.
What should I learn before Nature vs Nurture?
Work through the Beginner topics in Animal Behaviour first, such as Animal Behaviour, Innate Behaviour, Learned Behaviour, then return to Nature vs Nurture. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Nature vs Nurture?
The closest topics to Nature vs Nurture are Behavioural Genetics, Migration Behaviour, Innate Behaviour, Human Evolutionary Psychology. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Nature vs Nurture?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Nature vs Nurture. To practise the whole of Animal Behaviour, use the Animal Behaviour quiz.
How is Nature vs Nurture different from Behavioural Genetics?
Nature vs Nurture: Behaviour results from interaction of genes and environment, not one alone. Behavioural Genetics: Identifies genes influencing behaviour, such as the foraging gene in fruit flies. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Nature vs Nurture step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Behavioural Genetics and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Animal Behaviour quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.