Background Genetics is increasingly being used to explain human behaviours, with growing enthusiasm for what could be termed a€?genetic determinisma€?, which an ultra-Darwinist approach seeks to apply to all aspects of the human condition. Aims To consider the validity of the claims concerning the genetics of human behaviour and psychological distress. Method A critical review of the current assumptions about the relative contributions of genetics and the environment. Results and conclusions Organisms are in constant interaction with their environment: that is, organisms select environments just as environments select organisms. Like organisms, environments evolve and are homeodynamic rather than homeostatic; both a€?genomea€? and a€?enviromea€? are abstractions from this continuous dialectic.
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