Instinct

Instinct is the word used to describe inherent dispositions towards particular actions. Instincts are generally an inherited pattern of responses or reactions to certain kinds of situations. In humans, they are most easily observed in responses to emotions and bodily functions. Instincts generally serve to set in motion mechanisms that evoke an organism to action. The particular actions performed may be influenced by learning, environments, and natural principles. Generally, instinct is not used to describe an existing condition or established state.

See also

• Animal psychology
• Culture theory
• Ego, Superego and Id
• Ethology
• Psychology
• Reason
• Sociobiology
• Unconscious mind
• Predisposition