Identity of Comparative Psychology: Its Status and Advances in Evolutionary Theory and Genetics

Recent developments in theories in evolution, development and comparative psychology indicate that a redefinition of comparative psychology may be useful. A brief review of the marginalization of the scientific and academic identity of comparative psychology indicates the need to integrate contemporary thinking in evolutionary biology, genomics and developmental theory. Schneirla’s concept of integrative levels, punctuated equilibrium and exaptation theory elaborated by Eldredge, Gould, and Vrba, and advances in genomics (e.g., retrotransposon function) would be helpful in countering the marginalization of comparative psychology. A provisional redefinition is offered for discussion by those who identify themselves as members of the discipline; comparative psychology is the science of the elucidation of similarities and differences in the evolution and development of the activity of all species to illume the processes by which their activity contributes to the beneficence of their relationship to the abiotic and biotic aspects of the environment. Comparative psychology as a “science” emphasizes methods of investigation relating to all levels of the integration of processes that are relevant to the evolution and development of the activity of all species