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Genes don't quite work the way you appear to think they do.
There is a growing body of evidence indicating that many human behavioral traits are the result of epigentic interaction.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epigenetics
To summarize epigenetics, the presence of particular genes creates the POTENTIAL for a particular trait to be expressed, but whether or not the gene does express and create the trait is dependent up ENVIRONMENTAL factors.
For example, there is substantial evidence indicating children who are born to mothers who have previously given birth to multiple male children are statistically more likely to have homosexual orientation. To my knowledge, there are only speculative explanations for this statistical fact.
Another intersting case is neuoscientist James Fallon, who discovered that he has many genetic and physiological markers associated with serial killers. Yet Fallon is an upstanding law-abiding citizen/scientist. Fallon believes because he had a normal loving childhood, his genetic propensity to be a serial killer was not expressed, while most of the serial killers he studies had rough/abusive childhoods.
So, while geneticists may discover genes which tend to be associated with laziness or a short temper, it will almost certainly be the case those genes are moderated by environmental factors.
Brilliant post!
Thank you so much, Old School, for a well-thought out answer. This certainly is new light.
No, Randy, you have two grammar genes: the first is called "usage of proper grammar"; the second is called "unnecessary criticism of others' improper grammar."
Hello N:
Sure... There's 1,000's genes that haven't yet revealed their purpose.. Last I heard, scientists were calling 'em junk genes. But, that's only because they have NO IDEA what they do. But, they DO something, I'm sure..
excon
Hello t:
I knew that.. Specially the stuff about the polygene..
excon
May be.
That means you've used up your quota. If you agree with me any more this week, people will start talking. :-)
FYI: SKOS doesn't appear to like me very much. I've no idea why, but, if or whether he hates my guts is irrelevant here. His was still a stellar post.
To get back on track I'll disagree with your next few posts, ok?
I thought the human genome project identified each gene and its role. Perhaps I've misunderstood something. Must get my reading glasses out again. :)
Thank you, Sharonna. The answers to this question have thrown up a lot of information I wasn't aware of. And I thank you for your part in increasing my knowledge.
I usually am in such matters. :)
Yes. My modesty is something I'm proud of.
:)
