A systems view on revenge and forgiveness systems

Abstract

Applying a non-developmental evolutionary metatheory to understanding the evolution of psychological capacities leads to the creation of models that mischaracterize developmental processes, misattribute genes as the source of developmental information, and ignore the myriad developmental and contextual factors involved in human decision-making. Using an evolutionary systems perspective, we argue that revenge and forgiveness cannot be understood apart from the development of foundational human psychological capacities and the contexts under which they develop.

Forgiveness as a Mediator between Psychological Suzhi and Prosocial Behavior in Chinese Adolescents

“…Current literature suggests that several critical mediating variables contribute to the effect of psychological suzhi on individual behavior [ 23 , 24 , 25 ]. Forgiveness is a process of motivational transformation in which an individual transforms negative emotions (e.g., anger and hatred) into sympathy and love for the offender [ 26 , 27 , 28 ]. However, forgiveness has specific cultural differences [ 29 , 30 ].…”

Understanding Common Developmental Timetables across Cultures from a Developmental Systems Perspective

“…Rather than defaulting to intrinsic factors in explaining development, careful analysis can clarify how recurring developmental conditions can bring about both stability and variability in developmental outcomes [Lickliter & Harshaw, 2010]. Such analyses are essential for establishing developmentally plausible evolutionary explanations of human psychological capacities [see Wereha & Racine, 2013].…”