Social Behavior and the Evolution of Man's Mental Faculties

Abstract

A theory is sought to account for the evolution of the features or human mentality that make culture accumulation possible. Such a theory must suggest not only the selection pressures involved but also the basis in behavior of the protohominid upon which selection operated to lead to man's unique mental equipment. The following theory, based upon recent advances in our knowledge of the paleontology of man, of anthropoid psychology, and of the social behavior of vertebrates is offered. The protohominid lived in integrated family units essentially monogamous with a stable domicile. The male specialized as hunter, the female as domestic. A detailed consideration of the selection pressures operative in such an economy reveal the following modifications of the basic anthropoid adaptations; 1. increased intelligence in tool and fire use on the part of both male and female; 2. the beginning of language development; 3. social integration of the male and female through diffuse sexual behavior with increased cortical control; and 4. extension of the developmental period and the integration of the young males as well as females into the group. These biological factors are held to account for only the first steps toward a culture-capable organism.