(3) Cultural Evolution

Question 1

Spencerian Theories

Answer 1

Cultures evolve linearly through fixed stages of increasing complexity.
- Progressive
- A ladder, rather than a tree

Question 2

Darwinian Theories

Answer 2

Cultural evolution is non-linear (meandering).
- Not progressive
- A tree rather than a ladder
- Propelled by local adaptation rather than external forces
- Extinctions are common

Question 3

Neo-Darwinian Theory

Answer 3

• Variation is blind with respect to selection
• Traits are transmitted in a particulate manner (all-or-none)
• Inheritance is non-Lamarckian (acquired traits cannot be transmitted to offspring)

Question 4

Is Culture Neo-Darwinian?

Answer 4

No.
- Cultural variation is not blind with respect to selection. It arises with directed processes, like problem solving and creativity.
- Cultural traits are not transmitted in a particulate manner. Traits blend to form intermediate traits.
- Cultural inheritance seems to be Lamarckian. Acquired cultural information can be transmitted to the next generation.

Question 5

What is a meme?

Answer 5

A cultural variant, or unit of cultural inheritance, analogous to a gene.

Question 6

Convergent Evolution

Answer 6

(AKA Parallel Evolution) Idependant invention of the same novelty. Homoplasy.