The Evolution of Cognition

Humans are social animals - and we are the product of evolutionary forces. How do these facts interact and shape our cognitive faculties? Let's talk about evolution! 0:00 – Intro 1:09 2:55 – Evolution and spandrels 8:58 – Case study: bird migration 11:45 – Environment of evolutionary adaptation 15:43 – Sociality and Theory of Mind 21:40 – Do animals have Theory of Mind? 24:00 – The origins of intelligence 30:30 – Key concepts Sources: Gould & Lewontin (1979). The spandrels of San Marco and the Panglossian paradigm: A critique of the adaptationist programme. https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapter... Delmore & Irwin (2014). Hybrid songbirds employ intermediate routes in a migratory divide. https://doi.org/10.1111/ele.12326 Dally, Emery & Clayton (2010). Avian Theory of Mind and counter espionage by food-caching western scrub-jays (Aphelocoma californica). https://doi.org/10.1080/1740562080257... Hermann, Call, Hernàndez-Lloreda, Hare & Tomasello (2007). Humans have evolved specialized skills of social cognition: The cultural intelligence hypothesis. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1146282 The Intense 8 Hour Hunt. Attenborough Life of Mammals. BBC Earth.    • The Intense 8 Hour Hunt | Attenborough Lif...   False belief task video:    • The "False Belief" Test: Theory of Mind