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When we talk about genes for anything, like a gene for…

“When we talk about genes for anything, like a gene for being gay or a gene for being aggressive or something of that sort, that a gene for anything may not have been a gene for that thing under different environmental conditions.” quote by Richard Dawkins
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“When we talk about genes for anything, like a gene for being gay or a gene for being aggressive or something of that sort, that a gene for anything may not have been a gene for that thing under different environmental conditions.”

Richard Dawkins

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Genes interact with environments; a gene’s effect can change under different conditions, so traits aren’t solely genetic.

In simple terms: Gene effects depend on environment.

Key Takeaway

Consider both genetics and environment.

Themes

biology genetics environment epigenetics science

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive analytical

Type

scientific educational

When to use this quote

  • medical research
  • education
  • public policy

Key Concepts

nature vs nurture gene expression adaptation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does environment shape genetic traits?
  • What implications does this have for policy?
A Different Perspective

Genetic determinism can oversimplify complex traits.

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