The Origins and Evolution of Culture (original) (raw)

The article presents a novel framework for understanding the origins and evolution of culture from a Darwinian perspective, highlighting the random emergence of novel concepts and behaviors that are shaped by selective pressures based on the properties of living organisms. It argues that culture is not a recent development exclusive to hominids, but has deep historical roots spanning millions of years. Additionally, the article posits that cultural systems are inherently individualistic due to unique life experiences, thereby challenging notions of culture as an inheritance system, and demonstrates how innovations can alter resource access and, consequently, human behavior.