Introduction to Instincts in Human Conduct

Human behavior is a complex interplay between instinctual drives and acquired intelligence. Instincts are genetically inherited behavioral programs that guide our actions, while intelligence enables us to find the best ways to fulfill these innate drives. This article explores various instinctual behaviors and how they shape human conduct, with a focus on both simple and complex instincts.

Basic Instincts

Some instincts are fundamental and easily observed, such as the drive for sex and the pursuit of the best possible sexual encounters with the ideal partner. This includes the beauty industry, food industry, and the passion to obey authority or to aspire to become one. These behaviors are rooted in the drive to maximize reproductive success and ensure the survival and spread of genes.

Other instincts can be more complex, such as the desire for creativity, which drives innovation and problem-solving. These higher-order instincts help us to adapt to our environment and navigate complex social situations.

The Diversity of Human Instincts

Humans and higher animals possess over 4000 distinct instincts, some of which are quite basic, like yawning, while others are more complex, such as the creativity instinct. Some of these instincts are more developed in humans than in other animals. For example, the communication instinct, which enables speech and the exchange of complex ideas, is a prime example of a highly developed human instinct.

Instincts can be broadly categorized into two types: genetically determined features of the nerve centers and behavior functions acquired through social and physical environment interactions. The communication instinct, for instance, is not just a genetically inherited trait but also heavily influenced by learned behavior, such as learning to speak a specific language.

Social Behaviors and Instincts

Social behaviors often stem from underlying instincts. One such instinct is the tendency to respect and follow the lead of large males with deep voices, which can be seen in political leadership. Research has shown that individuals are more likely to obey or elect these individuals because of this instinct.

Another interesting instinct is the heightened attention to female voices. This tendency is particularly observable in the disproportionately high use of female voices in announcement systems. This preference for female voices in public announcements is often thought to be related to the human instinct to focus on attractive or authoritative-sounding voices.

When these instincts are combined, it often becomes clear why large male politicians are frequently elected. Their authoritative presence, combined with a deep, resonant voice, can command attention and respect, fulfilling these instinctual drives.

Conclusion

Understanding the role of instincts in human behavior is crucial for comprehending the underlying forces that drive our actions and decisions. Whether it is the basic drive for survival or the more complex instincts related to social behavior, these innate drives shape our daily lives in profound ways. By recognizing and analyzing our instincts, we can better understand ourselves and the motivations behind our behaviors.