Thinking Big: How the Evolution of Social Life Shaped the Human Mind

The need for early humans to live in larger social groups and maintain social relations over greater distances drove the enlargement of the human brain and the development of the human mind, according to the social brain hypothesis. This hypothesis can be tested against archaeological and fossil evidence. The book also touches on subjects such as the switch from finger-tip grooming to vocal grooming and the importance of making fire for the lengthening of the social day.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 240 pages
\n Publication date: 18 January 2018
\n Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd
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The evolution of the human brain and mind is a fascinating topic that has been studied by scientists for centuries. One theory suggests that the need for early humans to live in larger social groups and maintain social relations over greater distances drove the enlargement of the human brain. This theory is known as the "social brain hypothesis" and was put forward by evolutionary psychologists such as Robin Dunbar, one of the authors of the book Thinking Big.

Archaeological and fossil evidence supports this hypothesis. Clive Gamble and John Gowlett, two archaeologists, demonstrate how the development of tools and the use of language and communication contributed to the enlargement of the human brain. They also discuss the importance of social grooming, such as finger-tip grooming, in maintaining social bonds.

The book also touches on other topics, such as the switch from finger-tip grooming to vocal grooming and the crucial importance of making fire for the lengthening of the social day. The authors argue that we still inhabit social worlds that originated deep in our evolutionary past, by the fireside, in the hunt, and on the grasslands of Africa.

Overall, Thinking Big is a groundbreaking and provocative book that provides valuable insights into the evolution of the human brain and mind. It challenges traditional theories and offers a new perspective on the development of our cognitive abilities. The book is well-written and accessible to a wide audience, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the origins of human society and culture.

\n Weight: 236g\n
Dimension: 132 x 199 x 18 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780500293829\n \n