How we got stuck: The origins of hierarchy and inequality. (19th July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Birch, Jonathan; Buskell, Andrew
• Is Part Of: Mind & language. Volume 37:Number 4(2022)
• Page Start: 751
• Page End: 759
• Publication Date: 2022-07-19
• Subjects: cooperation -- culture -- hierarchy -- human evolution -- inequality; Psycholinguistics -- Periodicals; Thought and thinking -- Periodicals; Language and languages -- Philosophy -- Periodicals; 153.42
• DOI: 10.1111/mila.12420
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0268-1064

Abstract

Abstract : Kim Sterelny's book The Pleistocene social contract provides an exceptionally well‐informed and credible narrative explanation of the origins of inequality and hierarchy. In this essay review, we reflect on the role of rational choice theory in Sterelny's project, before turning to Sterelny's reasons for doubting the importance of cultural group selection. In the final section, we compare Sterelny's big picture with an alternative from David Wengrow and David Graeber.