Molecular genetics of personality: How our genes can bring us to a better understanding of why we act the way we do

In the 4th century, St. Augustine of Hippo used the Biblical parable of Jacob and Esau, twin brothers who displayed remarkably different characters, to disprove prevailing notions that astrology dictated personality. The search for underlying factors that contribute to individual differences in personality and character has continued to capture the interest and intrigue of scientists as well as the common man looking for a little personal insight. Advancements in behavioral genetics, by expounding on the molecular biological inputs of personality, have added a particularly fresh face to our understanding of what makes us the way we are and what makes us act different than our neighbors.