Genes and Behavior: What’s the Link?

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What is the connection between genes and behavior? Does human behavior have a genetic component? There is certainly a link between genes and behavior, but that doesn’t mean that your genetic make-up defines your personality and determines your destiny in life. Rather, your genetic predispositions determine which opportunities will benefit you the most. Read about the link between genes and behavior.

Understanding the Neuroscience of Behavior Change

Understanding the Neuroscience of Behavior Change

What do we know about the neuroscience of behavior change? What are the brain processes involved in the encoding and reinforcing of habitual behavior? The neuroscience of behavior change studies the brain processes involved in the formation and modification of behavior patterns. In simple terms, the encoding of new behavior is underpinned by a neuroplastic change in the brain, which is powered by the release of the pleasure chemical dopamine. Keep reading to learn about the neuroscience of behavior change.

Kin Altruism: Why We’re Nice to Our Family

Kin Altruism: Why We’re Nice to Our Family

What is kin altruism? Where does it come from and why is it an important part of natural selection. Kin altruism is the idea that we behave more favorably towards those to whom we are related. Proponents of religion claim that without an all-powerful creator, human beings wouldn’t know how to show kindness or affection. But kin altruism may have actually developed as a part of natural selection. Read more about kin altruism and why it’s an important part of evolution.

The Butterfly Effect Theory: Small Changes, Big Effects

The Butterfly Effect Theory: Small Changes, Big Effects

What is the butterfly effect theory? What are its implications for science? In chaos theory, the butterfly effect is the idea that small changes in the initial state of a non-linear system can have drastic effects on its later state. The concept is usually illustrated with a butterfly flapping its wings in Brazil and thereby setting off a tornado in Texas. Keep reading to understand the butterfly effect theory.

Where Did Religion Come From? Starts With Evolution

Where Did Religion Come From? Starts With Evolution

Where did religion come from? Is religion a natural part of human evolution, or something else? While we can’t specifically identify the answer to the question “where did religion come from” there are some clues. It also poses bigger questions about why we have religion, and whether it’s a necessary part of human life. Keep reading to find out the answer to the question “where did religion come from?”

Permian Mass Extinction: A Still-Unexplained Calamity

Permian Mass Extinction: A Still-Unexplained Calamity

What caused the Permian mass extinction? How long did it last and how many species did it eliminate? The Permian mass extinction was the most devastating of the Big Five mass extinction events in the history of life on earth, eliminating 96% of the species. Scientists attribute it to the sudden warming of the climate as a result of the increased concentration of carbon in the air. Read about the Permian mass extinction, its causes and effects on the animal kingdom.