People often say, “Humans are naturally good,” while others argue, “Humans are naturally violent.” This debate about whether our behavior comes from nature or nurture has been going on for a long time in psychology, anthropology, and sociology, especially when it comes to understanding violence.
So, what really causes human violence? Is it something built into our DNA through evolution, or is it shaped by the environments and experiences we go through? To figure this out, we need explore the complex interplay between our biology, psychology, culture and environment.
William Golding’s novel Lord of the Flies dives deep into these questions. The story follows a group of young boys stranded on a deserted island. Without the rules of civilization, their true instincts start to show. Through their actions, Golding suggests that violence might be a natural part of who we are – something that society covers up but doesn’t completely remove.
At first, the boys try to create order and act like the society they came from. They set up rules and roles to survive. But as time goes on, their efforts to work together fall apart, leading to chaos and brutality.
One of the most intense parts of the story is when the boys hunt a pig. At first, they’re just trying to find food, which makes sense for survival. But soon, the hunt becomes about more than just food—it’s about power, dominance, and the thrill of the kill. This shows that violence might not just be learned but could be a part of our nature that shows up when the situation allows it.
Is violence a natural part of us, something that shows up when there are no rules? When society’s rules and comforts are taken away, do we show our true nature?
From my own experiences, I’ve seen how our surroundings and situations can change our behavior. In high-pressure situations, like in sports or self-defense classes, the instinct to protect and survive can take over what we’ve learned. That adrenaline rush we get when we’re in danger can make us react in ways that feel natural and raw. In those moments, it’s hard to tell whether it’s nature or nurture that’s driving us.
This mix of natural aggression and outside influence is important to understanding how we act. Some of us might be more naturally inclined to certain behaviors, but our environment plays a big part in how we act on those feelings. I’ve noticed that in tough environments, where people struggle daily, the potential for violence is always there, just waiting for a trigger.
But our environment doesn’t just cause violence; it can also encourage peace and cooperation. It’s amazing to see how a supportive and nurturing environment can help people use their instincts in positive ways. In communities where rules discourage violence and encourage working together, conflict tends to decrease.
Neuroscientific research has shown that certain brain structures and chemicals are associated with aggression. The amygdala, which processes fear and aggression, and the neurotransmitter serotonin, linked to mood regulation, play crucial roles in this process. Understanding these biological aspects helps us see why some people might be more aggressive in stressful situations.
“Lord of the Flies” ultimately presents a bleak view of human nature, suggesting that violence is an intrinsic part of who we are. However, it also offers a glimpse of hope through characters like Ralph, who represent the potential for goodness and the importance of societal structures in curbing our baser instincts. The novel serves as a powerful reminder that while violence may be a natural part of the human condition, it is not inevitable.
Even though the potential for violence is part of all of us, it’s up to us to create societies that aim for peace and cooperation. By understanding the complex mix of nature and nurture, we can work toward environments that promote peace and reduce aggression.
We must support social rules and laws that hold people accountable, creating a society that encourages understanding and growth. By doing this, we can turn our instincts into positive actions, shaping a future that reflects the best of what humans can be.
Do something amazing,
Tsahi Shemesh
Founder & CEO, Krav Maga Experts
Violence is inherent esp when survival instinct kick in. Everything else is human construct. We created rules /laws to tell us apart from “animals” but we as humans are actually the most dangerous animals on earth. No one else has created weapons of massive destruction like human have done so. An animal will kill/maim purely because of hunger but not out of hate the way some humans do. However, as humans too we have created societies that promote love and inclusiveness and an aversion to violence. However, we also need to remember we all have it in us and it may be perceived as an evil thing but thats all perspective.if it all comes down to intention/motive and if we have to protect ourselves or those we love, it might be the only answer.