Instinctual: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'instinctual' comes from 'instinct,' which has roots in Latin, meaning 'to jump in' or 'to impel.'
• It originally referred to automatic behaviors that are not learned through experience but are hardwired in animals.

Psychology

• Psychologists often discuss instinctual behaviors as a factor in survival, where organisms respond automatically to threats or opportunities.
• Freud's theories included instinctual drives as fundamental to human psychology, affecting behavior and desires.

Biology

• In the animal kingdom, instinctual behaviors can include mating rituals, food gathering, and migration, which ensure species survival.
• Some species have evolved unique instinctual behaviors, such as the way some ants form supercolonies for defense.

Cultural Views

• Many cultures celebrate instinctual wisdom, viewing it as an important guide alongside learned knowledge and experience.
• In literature and film, characters often rely on instinctual decisions in critical moments to represent authenticity and truth.

Philosophy

• Philosophical discussions about instinctual behavior raise questions about free will, suggesting that some choices may be influenced by innate impulses.
• The contrast between instinct and reason is a common theme, exploring how human behavior is shaped by both inherent urges and conscious thinking.

Positioned at #23,251, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

• ...
• 23248 walkers
• 23249 screech
• 23250 lamination
• 23251 instinctual
• 23252 reproved
• 23253 appeasement
• 23254 stairwell
• ...