In the nature vs. nurture debate, "nurture" refers to the influence of external environmental factors on an individual's development and behavior after conception. It includes how exposure, experience, learning, upbringing, and life events shape physical, psychological, and behavioral traits. Essentially, nurture encompasses the effects of one's surroundings and personal experiences as opposed to genetic inheritance (nature).
Explanation of Nurture in the Debate
- Nurture represents all external influences after conception, including parenting, education, culture, social interactions, and life experiences.
- It is often contrasted with "nature," which refers to inherited genetic factors.
- The debate centers around how much of a person's traits and behaviors are determined by genetics versus environment.
- Modern understanding acknowledges that both nature and nurture interact complexly to shape individuals.
Summary
In short, nurture in this debate means the environmental inputs and personal experiences that influence a person's development, behavior, and characteristics throughout life, distinct from genetic or biological inheritance.