33 pages • 1 hour read •
On Human Nature
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Book Brief
288
Book • Nonfiction
•
Psychology•
Philosophy1970s
•
Sociology•
Psychology1978
Harvard University Press
Adult
18+ years
1510L
Super Short Summary
In On Human Nature, Edward O. Wilson explores how genetics and evolution shape human behavior and cultural practices, proposing that many aspects of human nature, including morality, aggression, and altruism, are biologically determined. Across nine chapters, Wilson examines the interplay between genetic inheritance, development, sexual dimorphism, and cultural evolution, ultimately questioning how humanity will leverage scientific understanding to influence its own future. The book discusses sensitive topics such as eugenics, biological materialism, and genetic determinism.
Informative
Contemplative
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
3,738 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
Edward O. Wilson's On Human Nature offers a thought-provoking exploration of sociobiology, praised for its insightful arguments and accessible prose. Critics commend Wilson's interdisciplinary approach, merging biology with humanities. However, some find his deterministic views overly reductive. Overall, the book is lauded for sparking intellectual discourse.
Who Should Read On Human Nature?
A suitable reader for Edward O. Wilson's On Human Nature is anyone fascinated by the intersection of biology, behavior, and culture. Fans of The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins and Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari would enjoy Wilson's scientific exploration of human evolution and nature.
3,738 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Edward O. Wilson won the Pulitzer Prize for General Non-Fiction for On Human Nature in 1979, highlighting the book's significant impact and recognition in the academic world.
On Human Nature delves into the intersection of biology and human behavior, contributing to the field of sociobiology, which Wilson popularized.
The book sparked substantial debate upon its release, as Wilson explored controversial ideas about genetics and social behavior, challenging conventional views on human nature.
Edward O. Wilson won the Pulitzer Prize for General Non-Fiction for On Human Nature in 1979, highlighting the book's significant impact and recognition in the academic world.
On Human Nature delves into the intersection of biology and human behavior, contributing to the field of sociobiology, which Wilson popularized.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
The book sparked substantial debate upon its release, as Wilson explored controversial ideas about genetics and social behavior, challenging conventional views on human nature.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
288
Book • Nonfiction
•
Psychology•
Philosophy1970s
•
Sociology•
Psychology1978
Harvard University Press
Adult
18+ years
1510L
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