What is a behavior?

[Christer Ericsson]

Dear netters,

We have gotten into a discussion here, about how exactly to define a
behavior? We think a precise definition is essential for a meaningful
molecular analysis of same. Being mostly molecular biologists, and no
ethologists we would appreciate some professional input. Checking out the
1984 Encyclopedia Brittanica gave the following definition: ³Animal
behavior (ethology) includes any activity of an intact organism². Finding
this a bit too general, at least I lean more towards the reductionist
definition given by William D. Hamilton in his Crafoord lecture. I do not
recal his exact words but it was something like: A behavior is a
controlled muscle contraction. Most people arround here seem to find this
offensive. They would require a behavior to be *in response to* some
exterior stimulus.

Is there a consensus?

I would be happy to summarize for the group if there is sufficient interest

-- 
Christer Ericsson e-mail: christer.ericsson at mog.ki.se