Fundamental Principles of Human Nature The heated controversy over how humans develop behavior, ideas, reasoning, and other abstract traits has been a subject of debate for centuries. John Locke's “blank slate” theory of experience and sensation and Edward Wilson's theory of evolutionary biology and innate genes are both valid and apply to the development of human nature. It has been proven through scientific research on the human genome over time, that both sides of this controversial topic are partially correct (Powell). However, I believe Wilson's theory is the most reasonable and legitimate in influencing the outcome of one's character. John Locke's theory states that the mind begins as a "blank slate" and that the outcome of one's character derives directly from developing experience and sensations. ideas over time. He states that all thoughts and ideas come from “objects of sensation or reflection” (126), and all knowledge and reason arise from the experience one undergoes. This theory contradicts Wilson's theory in that it states that “the mind supplies the understanding with ideas about its own operations” (127), rather than providing the understanding based on some genes already prescribed to the mind before birth. Locke advocates in his article on art the idea that every man can "examine his own thoughts (127)" and examine how he acquired all his knowledge and understanding as a whole, and see it as nothing less than a "collection of the objects of his senses or the operations of his mind.” Therefore, Locke firmly believes that there are no “innate behavioral genes” already prescribed to a person before he has any experience or sensation whatsoever. .. responded. Contradictory views contribute to the ongoing debate about how far genetics actually goes (if at all) in determining full understanding and knowledge of human nature. I believe Wilson's theory prevails over Locke's, as i inherited behavioral genes prescribed at birth are largely influential in determining the total outcome of behavior and human nature as a whole. Works Cited Locke, John “Of Ideas” Reading the World: Ideas that Matter. 2nd ed. Ed. Michael Austin. New York: Norton, 2010. 125-127. Print.Powell, Kimberly. “Nature vs. Nurture: How Heredity and Environment Shape Who We Are.” “Genealogy Information: Learn How to Research Your Family Tree.” About.com Guide, July 19, 2010. Web. September 14, 2011. Wilson, Edward O. “The Fitness of Human Nature” Reading the World: Ideas that Matter. 2nd ed. Ed. Michael Austin. New York: Norton, 2010. 144-149. Press.