The Biology of Belief: A Different Perspective on Fate and Genes (You Are Not Your DNA)
Biology remains one of the scientific fields predominantly governed by materialistic interpretations, even though the trend of interpreting everything through material components has lessened since the advent of modern physics.
Researchers in the field can attest that single-component studies are more easily published than studies on natural substances with unquantified components, even if the latter show better effects.
This is because materialistic interpretations and the idea that genes govern us provide an intuitive explanation for many biological phenomena, further popularized by Richard Dawkins’ well-written book, “The Selfish Gene.”
Despite the time that has passed since its publication, I recently came across a book offering a different perspective on genetic determinism. This book’s ideas resonated with me, prompting a reevaluation of my thoughts and a new beginning in my endeavors. The Korean edition of this book is titled “You Are Not Your DNA,” likely because modern Koreans tend to believe in genetic determinism.
To summarize the book in my own words:
Genes are like a repository of survival strategies accumulated over eons on Earth (Genes = Survival Encyclopedia on Earth).
Factors determine which parts of the genes are actually expressed:
1. Environment
2. My attitude and beliefs about the environment
While preparing for a lecture, I found that the causes of various diseases are rarely pinpointed.
The only certainty is that diseases result from the interaction of genetic and environmental factors.
Even in similar environments, individual responses to the environment vary greatly, although genetic differences between individuals are not significant.
The genome may limit each organism’s potential to some extent, but it cannot determine many aspects of life. Instead, the environment and one’s attitude towards it (beliefs) are crucial.
Although this book may seem like a biology text, it encourages reflections on life, fate, and dreams, making it worth summarizing briefly.
**Conclusion: Environment and Belief Over Genes**
While the genome limits an organism’s potential to some extent, it does not determine everything.
Environmental factors and individual attitudes (beliefs) play a significant role.
This book, while rooted in biology, prompts deeper reflections on life, fate, and aspirations, making it a valuable read.
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For the original Korean text, visit here.
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Learn Why Studying JangSang Medicine is Important.
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Thank you for reading.
