54 pages • 1 hour read
The Blank Slate
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Essay Topics
Why do you think people are so afraid of getting rid of the idea of the Blank Slate?
How does Pinker suggest expanding the moral circle so that we extend our concern to more people? How can this improve the world?
Compare and contrast the Tragic Vision of humanity with the Utopian Vision. What are the differences between these outlooks on the world and how to they relate to the ideas in The Blank Slate?
Do our genes determine what we do? Why or why not?
What evidence does Pinker use to support his idea that the human mind is not a “blank slate”?
How do Pinker’s ideas on the development of language help support his theory that there is no Blank Slate?
What does Pinker think most determines who children become as adults?
What would a feminist critique of The Blank Slate discuss? How would Pinker address such a critique?
How do you think knowing about our human nature can help us? Can this knowledge hurt us in any way?
What was the most surprising or controversial element of this book for you?
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By Steven Pinker
