Mind the gap: Contesting normal/abnormal constructs of human biology and behaviors

Area of Science:

• Anthropology
• Evolutionary Science
• Human Biology

Background:

• Culturally grounded views of human variation often rely on idealized and biased conceptualizations of "normal."
• These biased perceptions permeate evaluations of human biology and behavior, despite scholarly training aimed at challenging them.

Discussion:

• This special issue features 13 contributions addressing biological normalcy across universal yet variable human phenotypes.
• The papers analyze the multifaceted use of the term "normal" in everyday life, biomedicine, and scientific research.
• Contributors critically examine how "normal" is applied within their specific research areas to understand human phenotypic variation.

Key Insights:

• The concept of "normal" in human biology and behavior is frequently based on idealized and potentially biased perspectives.
• The term "normal" is used inconsistently across various contexts, including scientific studies and clinical practice.
• Challenging these biased uses of "normal" is crucial for a more accurate understanding of human phenotypic variation.

Outlook:

• Further research is needed to deconstruct and redefine "normalcy" in the context of human biological and behavioral diversity.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration is essential to address the complexities and biases inherent in studying human variation.
• Promoting critical examination of "normal" across scientific and medical fields will foster more inclusive and accurate discourse on human phenotypes.