Definition
Even without invoking epigenetics, most human traits, behaviors, and conditions are polygenic, contextual, and multi-causal. Genes contribute; they do not determine, in most cases of clinical interest.
Why it matters
The "gene for X" framing has done tremendous harm and rarely reflects the science. Understanding what genes do not determine is as important as understanding what they do.
The Science
GWAS studies typically identify hundreds of variants each with small effects. Environmental, developmental, and stochastic factors contribute substantially. "Gene for depression," "gene for happiness," etc. are almost always inaccurate framings.
The NSI Perspective
NSI holds nuance as a core clinical virtue. Determinism is almost never warranted; nihilism about biology is also unwarranted.
Clinical Implications
Genetic testing has legitimate uses. It rarely predicts complex behavioral or psychiatric outcomes with confidence.
Practical Application
You are not doomed by a family history. You are not liberated by a genetic test. You are, in most ways, a person whose story is still being written.
References
- 1.Turkheimer E. Three laws of behavior genetics and what they mean. Curr Dir Psychol Sci. 2000;9(5):160–164.