Sociobiology

Definition of Sociobiology

Sociobiology is a method of studying social behavior centered on the idea that biological aspects, such as the need to disseminate genetic heritage expansively, may account for patterns of human behavior and attitudes. The theory and study of sociobiology, which falls under the umbrella of evolutionary biology, aims to offer scientific justifications for developing social structure and behavior in humans and other species.  It attempts to explain social structures as the inevitable result of biological heredity. It pertains to systematically investigating the biological underpinnings of all social behavior.

Sociological Explanation

Biological and sociological ideas are combined in biosociological theories. Theoretic concepts and empirical studies from several areas of biology, including population genetics, ecology, evolutionary biology, and neuroscience, are integrated into this approach.

Sociobiology is a newly established academic field that has gained much popularity in the United States. Its central concept is that all human and animal behavior is ultimately influenced by genetic programming shaped throughout evolution by selection mechanisms.

The American scientist Edward O. Wilson is credited with popularizing sociobiology in his 1975 book Sociobiology: The New Synthesis.

Since altruism involves a sacrifice of individual efficiency that is inconsistent with orthodox evolutionary theory, supporters of sociobiological theories see the issue of altruism’s development as a fundamental hurdle. However, the evolution of altruistic behavior toward one’s neighbors is possible when genetic information is transferred among family members or other demographic groups. This is because, in such a scenario, the behavior still increases the chance that the genes of the individual offering assistance and help will be passed down to subsequent generations.

Sociologists have said that it is deterministic because it looks for behavioral patterns that can’t be changed by free will. The argument against this discipline is that, in the end, it only defends the existing quo and the established gender roles. The processes by which biological urges can only be satiated in certain ways are not explained.

Sociobiologists have often responded to these concerns by progressively including more and more environmental factors into their methodological approach while adhering to biology’s dominating role, at least in any behavior trait with evolutionary importance.

Example

Sociobiology aims to anticipate social organization from demographic characteristics and the genetic structure of populations. Ecological forces, such as defense and foraging demands, must also be considered. The idea of optimal foraging describes how organisms get the greatest quantity of food while applying only the least quantity of energy.