The Book of Life in the Double Helix: Cultural Differences in Biological Beliefs
Loading...
Authors
Lee, Albert
Date
2009-08-20T19:04:24Z
Type
thesis
Language
eng
Keyword
Culture , Biological , Genetics , Cultural Differeces
Alternative Title
Abstract
Biological beliefs posit that biological predispositions can sufficiently explain and predict human characteristics, behaviors, or other phenomena (e.g., Paul carries a gene for athletic abilities; he will become good at sports when he grows up.) In two studies consisting scenarios on a variety of developmental domains, participants from Canada and China evaluated the likelihood that a specific trait would develop in a character after reading about the genetic background of that individual. Results showed that, compared to Chinese, Canadians were more likely to rely on biological information in their developmental predictions. Some correlational evidence was found between participants’ biological beliefs and their scores on the Belief in Genetic Determinism Scale. These findings were consistent with past cultural research on causal attributions, perception of change, and beliefs in effort and persistence.
Description
Thesis (Master, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2009-08-19 15:41:59.041
Citation
Publisher
License
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.