Final answer:
Biological determinism is the idea that genes alone control behavior, reflecting a gene-centric view in the nature vs. nurture debate. However, behaviors are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, highlighting the interplay between innate predispositions and experiences.
Step-by-step explanation:
The idea that genes alone control behavior is referred to as biological determinism. This concept suggests that all behaviors are hardwired into our genes, an idea that is central to the debate over sociobiology's application to human behavior. Although some behaviors are inherited and can be shaped by natural selection, this notion often neglects the impact of environmental factors involved in the nature vs. nurture debate. The complexity of how behaviors develop includes both inherited genes and environmental influences.
The Gene Theory posits that the traits and characteristics of living organisms are determined by genes passed from parents to offspring. However, Mendelian inheritance demonstrates that a single characteristic is not controlled solely by one gene with two alleles; instead, most traits involve multiple genes working together. Moreover, behaviors can also be innate, manifesting without any need for learning or environmental influence, suggesting a strong genetic component.
For a comprehensive understanding of behavior, it is acknowledged that both genes and the environment (nature and nurture) play significant roles. For example, while certain dog behaviors may have a genetic basis, they are also shaped by the animal's experiences and environment, illustrating the interplay between genetic predispositions and external factors.