Molecular Genetics and the Human Personality

This breakthrough volume explores the new era of study made possible by the electrifying pace of discovery and innovation in the field of molecular genetics. In fact, several types of genome maps have already been completed, and today’s experts confidently predict that we will soon have a smooth version of the sequencing of the human genome—which contains some 3 billion base pairs.

Such astounding progress helped fuel the development of this remarkable volume, the first ever to discuss the brand-new—and often controversial—field of molecular genetics and the human personality. Questioning, critical, and strong on methodological principles, this volume reflects the point of view of its 35 distinguished contributors—all pioneering theoreticians, empiricists, clinicians, developmentalists, and statisticians in this burgeoning field.

For students of psychopathology and others interested in evaluating and exploring the conjunction of “molecular genetics” and “human personality,” this fascinating work offers an authoritative and up-to-date introduction to the molecular genetics of human personality. The book, with its wealth of facts, conjectures, hopes, and misgivings, begins with a preface by renowned researcher and author Irving Gottesman; continues with groundbreaking chapters on statistics, clinical relevance for psychiatrists, animal models, normal adult personality, infant temperament, intelligence, aggression, drug abuse, sexual orientation, and criticism; and concludes with what the future holds.

Clear and meticulously researched, this eminently satisfying work is written to introduce the subject to postgraduate students just beginning to develop their research skills, to interested psychiatric practitioners, and to informed laypersons with some scientific background.