Nature, Nurture, or Neither?

The forces that shape human behavior are classically divided into nature and nurture. Nature represents the genetic factors that shape the individual person. Many traits are correlated with genetics--most obviously physical appearance, but also intelligence and personality. DNA is not destiny, however. Experiential factors also shape human development. Nutrition, medical care, education, family dynamics, and culture each play a role in sculpting the individual. Which category, nature or nurture, is more potent? To some extent the answer depends on the trait. Height, for example, is strongly dictated by genes, but not completely. Many other traits, such as intelligence and personality, are affected as strongly by experiential factors as genetics. Nature and nurture seem to be fairly equally matched. But the two categories neglect a third factor that may tell us a great deal about human development, especially outstanding achievement. This is volition--more commonly called will--which is the ability to generate a goal and pursue it relentlessly. Layered on top of nature or nurture, volition works with potential to give birth to the actual. Volition, when played well, can trump its more well-known competitors. Will wins.