Kanisha and Jamal received their grades on their physics midterms. Kanisha earned an A, while Jamal received a D. "You must have the physics gene," Jamal said. "I don't. I might as well not bother studying." Jamal's attitude illustrates the idea of: A. Genetic discrimination B. Genetic determinism C. Genetic handicap D. Genetic engineering
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Jamal's attitude illustrates the idea of B. Genetic determinism. Genetic determinism refers to the belief that an individual's traits, abilities, or behaviors are predominantly or solely determined by their genetic makeup. In this scenario, Jamal believes that because he did poorly on the physics midterm and Kanisha did well, it must be due to some inherent "physics gene" that Kanisha possesses and he lacks. Consequently, Jamal assumes that studying or trying to improve in physics is futile since he believes his genetics predetermine his abilities in that subject. This mindset disregards other factors such as effort, environment, and the possibility of improving through learning and practice.