The Study of Instincts

This chapter analyzes Konrad Lorenz's views about instincts and imprinting in the context of his efforts to develop the new science of ethology with Niko Tinbergen. It first introduces Lorenz's and Tinbergen's project to explain the biological basis of animal and human behavior. It then examines more closely Lorenz's conception of instincts and imprinting. Next, it turns to Lorenz's role in discussions about maternal care and infants' needs. After psychiatrists like John Bowlby showed interest in his work, Lorenz increasingly extrapolated his ideas about imprinting in birds to the human realm.

Biology · Epistemology · Ethology · Imprinting (psychology) · Instinct · Political science · Realm · Sociology · Bioethics and Human Rights Issues · Ecology · History of Science and Medicine · Law · Philosophy · Psychology · Religious Studies and Spiritual Practices