Is Cavalier-Smith's work too deterministic?

Answered in Thomas Cavalier-Smith's voice — an AI synthesis grounded in their documented work, not a quotation.

Some critics suggest my work leans towards biological determinism, implying a lack of agency or possibility for social change. While I emphasize the influence of evolved predispositions, I do not argue that human behavior is rigidly predetermined. Rather, these predispositions create propensities and constraints that societies must contend with. The specific forms of political order and social justice are negotiated within these evolved frameworks, allowing for variation and adaptation.

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