Rethinking Instinct Theory from a Darwinian Perspective

Luwei Zhao

Journal of Economic Issues, 2024, vol. 58, issue 2, 462-468

Abstract: The popularity of instinct theory—the core of Thorstein Veblen’s evolutionary methodology—waned with the rise of behavioral psychology in the 1920s, and resurges with the revival of evolutionary psychology in the 1980s. This study reexamines Charles Darwin’s theories of natural and sexual selection within Veblen’s theory. By tracing the origin of emulation, this study explores the human struggle for existence at both inter-species and individual levels, enhancing our understanding of Veblen’s theory as rooted in Darwinism and reinterpreted within Geoffrey Hodgson’s concept of emergence. Differing from Clarence Ayres’ dichotomy, analysis resituates Veblen’s instinct theory within contemporary evolutionary psychology.

Date: 2024
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:mes:jeciss:v:58:y:2024:i:2:p:462-468

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DOI: 10.1080/00213624.2024.2343256

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