In Search of Human Nature

by Mary E. Clark

Overview

Human Nature offers a wide-ranging and holistic view of human nature from all perspectives: scientific, historical, and sociological. Mary Clark takes the most recent data from a dozen or more fields, and works it together with clarifying anecdotes and thought-provoking images to challenge conventional Western beliefs with hopeful new insights. Balancing the theories of cutting-edge neuroscience with the insights of primitive mythologies, Mary Clark provides down-to-earth suggestions for peacefully resolving global problems. Human Nature builds up a coherent, and above all positive, picture of who we really are.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780415286596
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	10/24/2002
Pages:	576
Product dimensions:	6.12(w) x 9.19(h) x (d)
Age Range:	18 Years

About the Author

Mary E. Clark was formerly Drucie French Cumbie Chair in Conflict Resolution at George Mason University. Her previous books include Contemporary Biology and Ariadne's thread: The Search for New Modes of Thinking. Conflict Resolution at George Mason University. Her previous books include Contemporary Biology and Ariadne's Thread: The Search for New Modes of Thinking.

Table of Contents

Introduction 1. Questioning the Scientized Image 2. Why we Primates are not 'Game Theorists' 3. The Selecting of Homo Sapiens 4. Brain Matters 5. A Thirst for Meaning 6. How Experience Shapes the Brain 7. 'Who Am I?' - Where Biology and Culture Meet 8. History, the Story of Meanings through Time 9. Humankind Crosses the Rubicon, 1900-2000 10. Conflict: Control or Reconciliation 11. The Search for Autonomy Within Community

Editorial Reviews

With a sophisticated understanding of evolution research, Clark presents [a]... picture of primates and humans as social animals with traits selected for peaceful coexistence.... Clark offers readers a scientifically rooted and richly developed theory that provides grounds for hope and action.
—Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists

William R. Capary

"In Search of Human Nature poses questions imperative to these times and then sets about offering answers that are human and thoughtful...Clark's ideas sometimes run contrary to accepted wisdom, posing an intriguing set of questions about our capacities for creative choice even in the midst of systemic forces that are popularly believed to constrain our choices. Her vivid metaphors and careful explanations are grounded in impressive research and innovative perspectives. I recommend the book without reservation." - Michelle LeBaron, University of British Columbia

'This controversial, challenging book is recommended for all academic and general audiences.' - Choice, on Ariadne's Thread

'A powerful, interdisciplinary introduction to environmental studies.'- - Ecology, on Aridane's Thread

'Mary E. Clark has defied the prevalent academic and political myopia to produce a work that is wide-ranging, powerful, intelligent, positive and hopeful in its synthesis, as well as strongly argued and informed by genuine practical wisdom and concern for the human condition. This is a brave, original, encouraging and timely book - exactly what we need.' - Piers H.G. Stephens, University of Liverpool

'Clark offers readers scientifically rooted and richly developed theory that provides grounds for hope and action.' - Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists

From the Publisher