Research indicates that the characteristics we are born with have much more influence on our personality and development than any experiences we may have in our life.
Which do you consider to be the major influence?

Nowadays, there is a controversial debate regarding which is more important. Inherited characteristics or life experiences on our personality. It is obvious that inherited characteristics are more important because of the development of genetic science. We understand that one individual’s characteristics and development are decided by genetic factors to a great extent.

However, some researches, regarding identical twins, has highlighted that there are enormous difference between them when they have grown up.  Researchers have assigned the difference to the twins’ inherited characteristics and different life experiences. The characteristics developed within the personality of an individual depends on the circumstances they are surrounded with and experiences they encountered. It is true that our life experiences are so unpredictable and may overpower other influences.

My personal view is that there isn't a single major influence in a person’s life. Instead, traits we inherited from our parents and experiences and situations we encountered in our life interacts. This interaction shapes personality and indicates how the personality develops.

In conclusion, it is not possible that the characteristics one is born with can totally decide his/her personality and development. If that is true, we are easy to predict or change our life. I don’t think either nature or nurture is a major influence on a person. Moreover, there are still unknown reasons which affect our life.

Just did a quick read... hope this helps!