We Not Me
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Episode 78 - How evolution affects groups of animals, including humans
Show Notes
The study of animal behaviour and evolution can provide a surprising insight into our own human behaviour and societal structures. By observing and understanding how animals interact with one another, we can learn more about the factors that shape the way we live and work together.
Alex Thornton is a Professor of cognitive evolution at Exeter University in the UK. He conducts experiments on animals – particularly birds of the crow family – to understand how behaviour and intelligence evolve. In his discussion with Dan and Pia, Alex draws some fascinating parallels between human behaviour and that of other animals, including evidence of democracy and compassion.
Takeaways from Dan and Pia
Three reasons to listen
- To explore the evolutionary aspects of animal intelligence and the role of social interactions in shaping behaviour
- To dive into research on crows and their complex societies, providing potential insights into human social dynamics
- For a discussion on the impact of social media on human thinking and behaviour in the context of global conflicts
Episode highlights
- [00:12:03] Introducing the corvid family of bird
- [00:13:57] What crows use their large brains for
- [00:20:06] Leadership dynamics within corvids
- [00:22:06] How crows vote
- [00:24:10] Why human culture is cumulative
- [00:30:33] The evolutionary benefits of kindness
- [00:35:05] Wrapping up
- [00:36:28] Takeaways from Pia and Dan
Links
- What can we learn from other animals? – Episode 45, with Beki Hooper
- Leave us a voice note
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Meet the guests
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Alex Thornton is the Professor of Cognitive Evolution at the Centre for Ecology and Conservation, at the University of Exeter (Penryn Campus). His research focuses on cognition, behaviour and cultural evolution. Specifically, his research group seeks to understand how the challenges faced by animals (including humans) in their natural environments shape their mental processes, how the ability to learn from others affects the behaviour of individuals and groups, and how culture itself evolves.
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