Basis for Neurodiversity

Mar 23, 2006 13:49

Why do genes that make humans 'mad' not get selected out if they are associated with a biological disadvantage?

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wijsgeer March 30 2006, 12:27:58 UTC
do you want reasons particular for mental health genes (to use a very crude nomer) and not for all genetically cause illnesses (like carrying with it protection for other ilnesses, showing up after reproduction.
Mantal health: maybe the risk adversity some mental health problems cause also cause longer live? At the same time, risk-seeking might help in spreading genes (sexual risk, risk on the battlefield, emigrational risk etc.)? Higher creativity that is possibly linked to bipolar disorder might increase attractiveness and thus gene spreading?
Where you looking for reasons like that? (i.e. behavioural ones) or were you thinking more along phisical/genetic lines?

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nikolai_ April 4 2006, 09:15:06 UTC
hey! Cheers yeah.. looking for behavioural ones. I'm sure there must be some truth in that certain 'mental disturbances' (again very crude) exist due to their biological advantages like the ones you've mentioned. I can't see why they'd exist other wise..?

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