Baldwin effect

the influence on intraspecies evolution of behavior change and learning. An individual member of the species acquires a new ability that enables better adaptation to the environment and hence increases probability of survival; the propensity for acquiring this characteristic is conferred in turn on descendants of that species member until a genetic variation occurs and the characteristic itself becomes hereditary. The Baldwin effect was originally called organic selection. [described in 1896 by James Mark Baldwin]

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Psychology term of the day

January 15th 2025

cochlear implant

an electronic device designed to enable individuals with complete deafness to hear and interpret some sounds, particularly those associated with speech. It consists of a microphone to detect sound, a headpiece to transmit sound, a processor to digitize sound, and a receiver to signal electrodes that are surgically implanted in the cochlea to stimulate the auditory nerve. In contrast to a hearing aid, which amplifies sound, it directly stimulates the auditory nerve.