The concept of 'misstrauensgesellschaft' and the principal social problems

摘要

Biological studies into behaviour were inaugurated in the 20th century when the theory of evolution provided the grounds for a scientific approach to the essence and function of behaviour. These studies assumed the form of classical ethology, genetic ethology and socio-biology. These concepts are also applied in the studies over human behaviour. An interesting attempt at "a biological" approach to problems of human behaviour has been launched recently by I. Eibl-Eibesfeldt. According to him mistrust and the loosening of internal social ties constitute the essence of contemporary society. Hence, the concept of"Misstrauensgesellschaft" - of "the society showing mistrust" in which we are living now. The characteristic features of that society are ruthlessness and fear. Basing on this concept Eibl-Eibesfeldt presents his views on the problems of survival of the human race, the development of a multi-cultural community, migration, demographic growth, intensifying violence and ecological threats. He also describes the probable development of the European community in the next millennium. The concept of "Misstrauens gesellschaft" provides a good explanation of many crisis phenomena in the contemporary social life, especially at the level of human behaviour. However, a critical review of that concept should not ignore the individualistic research perspective, the problem of the adopted unclear social dynamic, the question of biological normativism as well as the social views of the author which exert an influence on the conclusion that he formulates.