I Am Going to Say Something Controversial

I have already stated in other posts that in the nature vs. nurture controversy, I think nature places a bigger part, but it does not mean nurture is at all irrelevant. If I thought so, I would not be working in education.

However, I believe nurture must be balanced. That means:
1- It must come from different sources: family, friends, village or neighbourhood, school, media, art, government. Preferably in a bigger amount from those closer to the individual, in my opinion.
2- It must bring different opinions and perspectives.

If any of those premises fail, nurture becomes brainwashing. And I am afraid that's the kind of nurture many of its apologists support. Certain nurture, from certain sources, in a certain direction.

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FlowerAlchemist · 26-30, T

It's clear that nature plays an important role in us. It's our base, and that defines us. However, nurture is the ability to shape that base and what you build on it (your life). I don't think anyone is doomed because of their nature. I believe a good and balanced nurturing like you said can help people grow to be their best version of themselves.

Cierzo · M

@FlowerAlchemist I read somewhere a very good analogy.
Let's see life like a shooting contest. Nature is the gun and the bullets we have. Some have a better gun and more bullets than others.
Nurture teaches you how to shoot.

FlowerAlchemist · 26-30, T

That's an interesting way of putting it. In that case, I believe that even if you cannot change your gun, you can make some adjustments thanks to nurture.

Cierzo · M

@FlowerAlchemist True, but also if your gun has none or few bullets, you are not able to shoot

FlowerAlchemist · 26-30, T

I agree. But you can still hope you'll be able to shoot someday, and walk towards that objective. Maybe you cannot get new bullets on your own, and you need someone who loves you to provide them.

Cierzo · M

@FlowerAlchemist I don't see how anyone else may provide us with character. What we have is what there is. However, they can teach us to get the best from it.

FlowerAlchemist · 26-30, T

Yes, what you say is true. I wanted to point out that sometimes you need a helping hand. You thought you could not do something, and you needed someone to make you see the truth, your truth.
I wanted to be perfect, and not have to rely on anyone. But I've realized true strength means to trust other people, because even if it may hurt you, you'll be able to expand both your and their horizons.