Summary
Researchers at the University of Maine suggest that cultural evolution is now more important than genetic evolution in shaping how humans develop and survive. They argue that shared knowledge, technologies, and institutions are playing a bigger role in human evolution, changing how we adapt and thrive.
Key Facts
- The study is conducted by researchers from the University of Maine.
- They propose that cultural evolution is taking over genetic evolution as the main driver of human development.
- Technologies and cultural practices, like eyeglasses and fertility treatments, help humans overcome biological limits.
- The researchers believe cultural evolution might accelerate in the modern era.
- They are developing mathematical and computer models to study this process.
- The research aims to collect long-term data to understand these changes.
- The team notes that cultural evolution can lead to both positive and negative outcomes.
- They caution against viewing cultural evolution as inherently progressive or ideal.
