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When more than one gene is responsible for a given phenotype, the trait is considered polygenic. Human height is a polygenic trait. Studies have uncovered hundreds of loci that influence height, and there are believed to be many more. Due to the high number of genes involved, as well as environmental and nutritional factors, height varies significantly within a given population. The distribution of height forms a bell-shaped curve, with relatively few individuals in the population at the...
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Human genetics provides a profound framework for understanding the interplay between genetic predispositions and human psychology. At the heart of this discipline lies the study of how genes influence physical traits, behaviors, and susceptibility to diseases. Each person carries a unique genetic code that subtly or significantly shapes their psychological and behavioral landscape.
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Using Cholesky Decomposition to Explore Individual Differences in Longitudinal Relations between Reading Skills
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Polygenic scores and social science.

Walter Veit1, Heather Browning2,3

  • 1School of History and Philosophy of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia wrwveit@gmail.com; https://walterveit.com/.

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Summary

Polygenic scores in social sciences face challenges. Sociogenomics requires a cautious, methodologically pluralist approach, acknowledging difficulties while remaining optimistic about careful application.

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Area of Science:

  • Social Sciences
  • Genomics
  • Sociogenomics

Background:

  • The role of polygenic scores in social sciences is a contentious topic.
  • Sociogenomics faces significant methodological hurdles inherent to social science research.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To advocate for a methodologically pluralist approach to sociogenomics.
  • To address the debate surrounding the application of polygenic scores in social science research.

Main Methods:

  • The study adopts a stance of methodological pluralism.
  • It involves a critical evaluation of sociogenomic methodologies within the social sciences.

Main Results:

  • Sociogenomics should temper its hype and acknowledge existing social science methodological challenges.
  • A cautious yet optimistic outlook is recommended for the use of polygenic scores.

Conclusions:

  • A methodologically pluralist approach is essential for responsible sociogenomics.
  • Despite challenges, polygenic scores can be cautiously utilized in social sciences with an optimistic perspective.