Nature? Nurture? What makes us human?Nature? Nurture? What makes us human?
All In The Mind
That old chestnut - what defines human nature? Genes or experience? Are we free agents or genetically determined souls? These questions have fuelled a fierce fight - polarizing a battleground of social scientists, biologists, parents and politicians. World renowned science writer Matt Ridley is calling a truce, and arguing the case for Nature via Nurture. Genes aren't Gods, he argues, they're cogs. As agents of nurture, genes get switched on and off by our experiences. Join Natasha Mitchell with Matt and special guests to debate the implications. Part of the 2007 Alfred Deakin Innovation Lecture series.
30:07•14 Jul 2007
Nature via Nurture: Genes, Experience and What Makes Us Human
Episode Overview
- Genes and environment interact, with experiences switching genes on and off rather than single genes simply "causing" traits or conditions.
- Genetic predispositions may increase vulnerability to problems like depression or antisocial behaviour, but harmful environments remain key drivers.
- Disability-related genetic information raises ethical concerns about demonising conditions and ignoring the value of diversity and inclusion.
- Social policy, health equity and supportive environments for children are presented as more actionable priorities than genetic profiling alone.
- Knowledge of genetics is framed as potentially increasing human freedom, provided individual choice is protected and coercive eugenic practices are rejected.
“"Genes aren't gods, they're cogs."”
What drives someone to seek a life shaped by both genes and experience? This episode of *All In The Mind* takes on the classic nature versus nurture argument with a lively mix of science, ethics and social commentary. Natasha Mitchell hosts a panel recorded at the Alfred Deakin Innovation Lecture series, bringing together science writer Matt Ridley, disability advocate Rhonda Galbally and molecular geneticist Professor Robert (Bob) Williamson.
Ridley sets the tone with his memorable line: "Genes aren't gods, they're cogs," arguing that genes are switched on and off by what happens to us. As he puts it, "Your genome does not make you depressed, but it might make you more likely to be depressed when you suffer several external setbacks in your life." The conversation ranges from twin studies and reading ability to depression, antisocial behaviour and disability.
You'll hear about landmark research from Dunedin in New Zealand, questions about free will and Daniel Dennett’s bird-and-jellyfish analogy, plus a sharp reminder that genetic knowledge doesn’t magically solve social problems. Rhonda stresses the danger of "demonising" conditions such as dwarfism, Down syndrome, depression and schizophrenia, and argues that the real "main game" is tackling health inequities and building a nourishing environment for children.
Bob Williamson adds a candid view from the lab, saying, "Every geneticist has to be a disability activist," while warning against glamorising disabilities or letting genetics justify discrimination. The panel keeps circling back to one key point: genes and environment are deeply intertwined, but social choices and public policy still matter. If you’re curious about how science, ethics and everyday life intersect around human behaviour and mental health, this episode offers plenty to think about and question.
So, how do you reckon your own mix of nature and nurture is shaping the choices you make today?
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