JLNobody wrote:AllThisBeauty, your comment is VERY ironical, given that I see sociobiology as a religious-like commitment to a reductionist principle that will explain everything. And, I'm an atheist.
By the way, I do think that sociobiology serves to explain much of the variance in insect behavior. My objection is that it seems to feel no need to expand its range of parameters for the understanding of human behavior and experience.
I understand why you feel that way. Sometimes I feel that way too, when I read the sociobiology extremist texts. Regarding what I think I know, I embrace, in particular, Alan Watts' "red traffic light" metaphor. It goes something like this.
With my DNA turned off, I approach the red light. Dazzled by the glory of the shape and color, I'm unable to move on. Traffic piles up behind me. Progress ceases. With my DNA turned on, I approach the traffic light and my instinct is to stop, wait, and move on.
I believe my chemistry informs my behavior and my sense of right and wrong so that I keep moving on. For me, this is a benevolent and beautiful process.