Implications of the theory of evolution for psychology: the evolutionist psychology perspective

Abstract

The idea that human behavior is based on instincts was popular among psychologists about 100 years ago. At the present time, the evolutionist psychologists postulate that behavior is strongly influenced by inherited factors, and that the aim of every human being is to enhance his own fitness. The main aim of this study is to introduce and to discuss the evolutionist theory and its implications for the area of Psychology. The authors reviewed articles and books on this subject. This paper can contribute to the development of a new paradigm for ethology and comparative psychology in the context of Brazilian psychology.

Theory of evolution; Human mind; Psychology