Human Nature: Opposing Viewpoints

by Mark Ray Schmidt (Editor)

Debates the influences of genetics and the environment on human nature, how it affects conflicts between men and women, and how it shapes society

154 pages, Library Binding

First published February 1, 1999

Reviews

[Melissa Kidd · Rating 2 out of 5]

While this book was very short, I had a hard time reading it. I really enjoyed the chapter prefaces and introductions of each viewpoint but the essays are all original and the language got me on many of the older ones. I really had to concentrate to understand what was being said, which lowered my enjoyment significantly. Other parts I had no problem with. The topic itself, does human nature exist and how does it affect us, was very intriguing - a topic I have come across many times in my field of study and relate to very well. I do recommend the book for those interested in the different perspectives: Human nature being shaped by genetics versus society; Has human nature been corrupted; why humans conflict with each other; why there are conflicts between men and women; and whether human nature can be destroyed or not. It’s pretty deep in places but has some great observations from some very prominent people.

[Audrey · Rating 3 out of 5]

It is difficult to read multiple opposing viewpoints in close concession. However, each book in the Opposing Viewpoints Series has a note of advice on their back covers: "Those who do not know their opponent's arguments do not completely understand their own." These books should be read when one knows his or her self well enough to listen to a contradiction, and then read the contradiction to learn how to strengthen his or her own argument.

[Rudy Kye · Rating 3 out of 5]

good jumping off book.