Heredity Quote by Karl Groos
““...imitation supplements inadequate congenital variations in the direction of an instinct, and so, by keeping the creature alive, sets the trend of further variations in the same direction until the instinct is fully organized and congenital. If both of these views be true, as there seems reason to believe, then imitation holds a remarkable position in relation to intelligence and instinct. It stands midway between them and aids them both. In some functions it keeps the performance going, and so allows of its perfection as an instinct; in others it puts a stress on intelligence, and so allows the instinct to fall away, if it have no independent utility in addition to that served by the intelligence. In other words, it is through imitation that instincts both arise and decay; that is, some instincts are furthered, and some suppressed, by imitation.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Origin of Play, 1898
Imitation helps instincts develop and fade, acting as a bridge between instinct and intelligence.
In simple terms: Imitation shapes and refines instincts and intelligence.
Key Takeaway
Use imitation to learn and evolve.
Themes
learning
instinct
intelligence
evolution
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- education
- skill training
- creative arts
- technology adoption
Key Concepts
cognitive development
behavioral adaptation
cultural transmission
Questions to Reflect On
- When does imitation hinder innovation?
- How balance imitation with creativity?
A Different Perspective
Imitation may limit originality if overused.
![“...play [is] an instinct developed by natural selection ... and ... on a level with the other instincts which are developed for their utility. It is very near, in its origin and function, to the instinct of imitation, but yet they are distinct … Its utility is, in the main, twofold: First, it…” quote by Karl Groos](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2c5/karl-groos-64240_instinct_play-is-an-instinct-developed-by-natural_203566.jpg)
