Do genetics play a role in culture?

[Krieger]

Hi guys,

 

I am new here, so hello from Utah.

 

I have a question regarding genetics and culture. How much of culture can be traced back as the direct result of genetics? That is: Are there valid criticisms of tabula rasa/blank slate theory?

 

This article is what got me thinking about it: http://scan.oxfordjournals.org/content/5/2-3/203.full

 

I look forward to hearing responses!

 

Best regards,

Mo

[timothyd]

That was an interesting article that you cited to. There may very well be some genetic interplay with culture. However, I think the more recent discoveries in epigenetics may be a better answer, or is at least part of the answer. Biology has been incredibly slow to deal with, respond to, and/or incorporate the terrific advances in the understanding of epigenetics over the past 7 to 10 years.

 

Your intro suggested you were from Utah. There is a U of UT site devoted to epigenetics. The last time I looked, it was pretty current. There are two fairly good books available on the subject. The slightly older one, which is very doubtful of transgenerational epigenetic communication, is by Nessa Carey, entitled the Epigenetics Revolution. It is a very good read. The more recent, and up-to-date as to intergenerational transfer, Is Epigenetics: How Environment Shapes Our Genes by Richard C Francis. The title is a little misleading. Epigenetics don't "shape" the genes. They, through methylation, reduce or prevent the expression of certain genes, and, through acetylation enhance the expression of certain genes. This appears to be not only at the genetic level (which is very difficult to reverse) but at the histone and RNA levels, which are much more reversible. The most recent statement I could find about that can be viewed at www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130509123647

 

Have a lovely day.