Evolutionary psychopathology: Why isn't the mind designed better than it is?

Journal/Book: Brit J Med Psychol. 1998; 71: St Andrews House, 48 Princess Rd East, Leicester, Leics, England Le1 7Dr. British Psychological Soc. 353-373.

Abstract: This paper outlines some of the basic issues in evolutionary thinking when applied to psychopathology. It aims to give some background and cont-rxt to the papers that follow. Particular attention is given to the way evolution is constrained by previous design features, the importance of trade offs between advantages and disadvantages oi different traits, the way social dilemmas and conflicts have shaped the evolution of human motivational systems, and the psychology that supports them. The payer concludes with a plea to avoid thinking of evolutionary approaches as a reductionist science, when the locus needs to be on the way evolution theory informs the study of the social-biological interface.

Note: Review Gilbert P, Kingsway Hosp, Mental Hlth Res Unit, Derby DE22 3LZ, ENGLAND

Keyword(s): SOCIAL ATTRACTIVENESS; BEHAVIORAL-SCIENCES; HARMFUL DYSFUNCTION; MENTAL DISORDER; PERSPECTIVE; DEPRESSION; PSYCHOLOGY; INTEGRATION; ALTRUISM; CRITIQUE

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