Handbook of Human Instincts

This book examines the primal forces that drive human behavior within the context of modern science and philosophical inquiry. It sets the stage for a deep dive into human instincts, positing them as fundamental forces sculpting the human saga from its evolutionary roots to current complexities. The volume addresses distinct facets of human instincts, from biological underpinnings to manifestations in contemporary life, methodological approaches to study, and ethical considerations regarding future research. The book elucidates the complexity and dynamism of instincts by integrating perspectives across disciplines, providing a profound appreciation of the invisible forces that drive human behavior and society. Key areas of coverage include: The genetic, neurobiological, hormonal, and etiological aspects that constitute the basis of instinctual behavior. Primary instincts crucial for individual survival and propagation, including mechanisms behind fight-or-flight responses, sexual selection, parental attachment, food seeking, and sleep cycles. How instincts foster complex social behaviors, such as empathy, social hierarchy, fairness, and communication. Instincts that drive cognitive and emotional landscapes, including curiosity, belief systems, fear response, aggression, and the pursuit of pleasure. Challenges and transformations of instinctual behaviors in the modern world, including ways in which instincts are leveraged and disrupted by addiction, cooperative work, cultural practices, and technological advancements. The Handbook of Human Instincts is an essential reference for researchers, professors, graduate students as well as clinicians and related professionals across developmental, clinical, cognitive, and evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, cultural anthropology, philosophy, neurobiology, medical ethics and bioethics, education, and all related disciplines.