Broadcast 鈥� A diversity - tolerance model of cultural evolution
The Cutting Edge lectures are organized to foster communication between scientists in different disciplines as well as between scientists and the public.
By (Dept of Anthropology, 不良研究所)
Building on recent computer simulation results from my lab, I will argue that while we humans perceive ourselves as forward looking decision makers, and often see our sophisticated brain as a rational choice engine, we are in fact probably selected to have a limited ability to make good decisions. I will argue that our brain is in fact a diversity production machine and that cultural evolution depends on the ability of our cultural systems to build and maintain diversity, and on our ability to access and replicate other people's traits when circumstances demand it. Under this 'diversity-tolerance' model of cultural evolution humans are smart enough to come up with a range of potential solutions to the problems we face, but not very good at determining which solution is the best.