Blueprint: How DNA Makes Us Who We Are

The 1% of DNA that differs between people shapes our personality, intellectual capacity, and vulnerability to mental illness. Robert Plomin argues that DNA is the most important factor shaping who we are, and that teachers and parents should accept children for who they are rather than trying to mould them.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 06 June 2019
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

The blueprint for our individuality lies in the 1% of DNA that differs between people. Our intellectual capacity, our introversion or extraversion, our vulnerability to mental illness, even whether we are a morning person - all of these aspects of our personality are profoundly shaped by our inherited DNA differences.

In Blueprint, Robert Plomin, a pioneer in the field of behavioural genetics, draws on a lifetime's worth of research to make the case that DNA is the most important factor shaping who we are. Our families, schools, and the environment around us are important, but they are not as influential as our genes. This is why, he argues, teachers and parents should accept children for who they are, rather than trying to mould them in certain directions. Even the environments we choose and the signal events that impact our lives, from divorce to addiction, are influenced by our genetic predispositions.

Now, thanks to the DNA revolution, it is becoming possible to predict who we will become, at birth, from our DNA alone. As Plomin shows us, these developments have sweeping implications for how we think about parenting, education, and social mobility.

A game-changing book by a leader in the field, Blueprint shows how the DNA present in the single cell with which we all begin our lives can impact our behaviour as adults.

The book explores the fascinating world of behavioural genetics, which studies the influence of our genes on our behaviour. Plomin begins by explaining the basics of DNA, including how it is passed down from generation to generation and how it can affect our physical and mental health.

He then delves into the role of genetics in shaping our personality traits, such as intelligence, aggression, and risk-taking. Plomin argues that our genetic predispositions play a significant role in determining our behaviour, but that environmental factors, such as upbringing and socialisation, also play a crucial role.

One of the most interesting aspects of Blueprint is its exploration of the concept of "nature versus nurture." Plomin argues that while our genes do determine our genetic predispositions, they are not the only factor that influences our behaviour. He suggests that our environment can also shape our behaviour, particularly in the early years of our lives.

For example, Plomin argues that children who grow up in poverty or in a violent environment are more likely to develop behavioural problems later in life. He also suggests that early experiences, such as exposure to certain chemicals or experiences, can have a lasting impact on our behaviour.

Plomin's book is filled with fascinating anecdotes and examples that illustrate the impact of genetics on our behaviour. He also provides practical advice for parents and teachers, such as how to support children who may be struggling with behavioural problems or who may be at risk of developing mental health issues.

One of the most important messages of Blueprint is that we should not judge people based on their genetic predispositions. Plomin argues that everyone has the potential to achieve their goals and that our genetic differences should be celebrated rather than stigmatised.

In conclusion, Blueprint is a must-read for anyone interested in genetics, psychology, or social science. It provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the field of behavioural genetics and offers valuable insights into the role of genetics in shaping our behaviour. By understanding the influence of our genes, we can better understand ourselves and others, and work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society.

Weight: 224g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780141984261