Extract

Stages and paths of aggression development – knowledge that awaits being uncovered

We live in times when science is capable of recognising the human genotype based on fragments of tissue. They are able to determine their properties, tendencies, or even future appearance and health. The source of this knowledge can mainly by sought in the natural sciences. On the grounds of their discoveries, particularly those concerning the genetic code, we are able to almost precisely predict changes of an individual’s appearance, their lifestyle (e.g., diet), patterns of behaviour in various situations and even significant lifetime choices such as choosing a partner (see Walesa, 1988). Therefore, it is worthwhile to consider whether there is anything yet to be discovered, anything that is worthwhile or necessary to be examined. Moreover, what is the role of the social sciences, particularly psychology, in these studies?

The history of scientific discoveries in the field of psychology is packed with “censored” knowledge, available only for chosen individuals. A good example may be the studies of Ernst Kretschmer concerning the structure of the human body or the typology of the temperament types which he associated with a risk of specific mental illnesses (1922). In his work entitled “The Psychology of Men of Genius,” the author combined the knowledge of the constitutional system of the body with the intellect and the potential of an individual (1929). Similarly, another prominent psychologist, Hans Eysenck (1990), the creator of the modern concept of personality and the...