This is a great list. I've read some, I own some, and I will get the others. One question though. Your last line on Harris' book says "And while not every claim holds up, it’s a must read for developmentalists." could you point me in the direction of works that show where she erred ?
Great question! Harris’ book argues for peer socialization theory (that peers are the non-shared environmental effects responsible for differences) while discounting that parents play a significant role in children's outcomes. I think her claims on both are too strong. Mitchell’s book addresses the peer socialization theory specifically and presents a better argument for individual differences, while Gopnik’s book shows clearly how parents matter for child development. Harris’ book is a classic though and brigh radical change to questions of dev psych.
This is a great list. I've read some, I own some, and I will get the others. One question though. Your last line on Harris' book says "And while not every claim holds up, it’s a must read for developmentalists." could you point me in the direction of works that show where she erred ?
Great question! Harris’ book argues for peer socialization theory (that peers are the non-shared environmental effects responsible for differences) while discounting that parents play a significant role in children's outcomes. I think her claims on both are too strong. Mitchell’s book addresses the peer socialization theory specifically and presents a better argument for individual differences, while Gopnik’s book shows clearly how parents matter for child development. Harris’ book is a classic though and brigh radical change to questions of dev psych.
Great thx ! Mitchell is on my shelf, but I haven't read it yet. And I already read the Gopnik one, so will have to go back in. :)