On Sin, Repentance, Christian Nurture, And The Genetics of Personality
OA Version
Citation
Abstract
Description
Dean Homer\'s description of the genetics of personality includes two components: temperament and character. Temperament is a product of the interaction of the individual\'s genes with early stimuli, whereas character is formed by parenting, social interaction and the individual\'s choices of reactions to external stimuli throughout life. This understanding of the genetics ofpersonality argues against determinism and is appropriate for a Christian doctrine of sin and repentance. Hamcr\'s description of the impact of child-rearing on character echoes the significance of Christian nurture, especially as expressed in the Sacrament of Baptism.