From mice to men

Abstract

For both man and other animals most of their nature lies in darkness. Within this darkness many similar physiological, mental and environmental processes determine what the individual is and may become. Comparative studies encompassing physiology, psychology and ecology, if pursued in an holistic, synergistic manner have the power of shedding light on the degree to which processes operate regardless of the evolutionary level considered. However, if studies with animals other than man are to make an effective contribution to the understanding of man, we must have a good appreciation of the nature of man, as well as the scope of studies on animals that may further elucidate this nature.