Tradition is Smarter Than You Are: The Power of Cultural Evolution

Tradition is Smarter Than You Are: The Power of Cultural Evolution

In today's fast-paced and ever-changing world, it's easy to dismiss the importance of tradition and cultural practices. We often believe that our own intellect and rationality are enough to navigate through life and solve complex problems. However, a closer look at the power of cultural evolution reveals that tradition is often much smarter than we give it credit for.

The idea that tradition holds wisdom beyond our individual understanding is not a new concept. As the saying goes, "If you don't see the use of it, I certainly won't let you clear it away." This sentiment highlights the importance of respecting and preserving the practices handed down to us from earlier generations. Humans, despite their intelligence, rely heavily on the culture and environment they have learned to operate in. Remove them from this context, and they quickly falter.

This concept is further illustrated by the example of explorers who find themselves in unfamiliar territories. Despite their problem-solving skills and analytical thinking, they struggle to adapt and survive. This suggests that human success is not solely based on our ability to come up with novel solutions to new challenges. Instead, it is the cultural evolution that equips us with the knowledge and practices necessary for survival.

One fascinating aspect of cultural evolution is that it often defies rational thinking and cost-benefit analyses. The complex repertoires of behaviors and traditions that have been passed down through generations appear well-designed to meet local challenges. However, they are not the result of individuals consciously applying causal models or rational thinking. They are ingrained in the fabric of a culture and have been refined over time through trial and error.

Bird augury is an example that supports the view that cultural practices are adaptive. This ancient practice of using bird behavior to predict future events may seem irrational on the surface. However, it has been found that in rice cultivation, randomizing garden locations, influenced by bird augury, actually leads to more successful outcomes. Farmers who followed this tradition, without fully understanding why, consistently outperformed those who relied on chance or simply copied others' behavior.

The difficulty in comprehending the true purpose and mechanisms behind the traditions we inherit is what makes it challenging to create artificial replacements. The people who strictly adhere to these traditions may not have a clear explanation for why they follow them. This lack of understanding, however, does not diminish the effectiveness of these traditions in ensuring survival.

One argument put forth by cultural evolution researcher Henrich is that customs, traditions, and practices are subject to Darwinian selection. The traditions that stick around the longest are the ones that have proven to be adaptive. This selection process may favor individuals who follow the traditions, groups whose members all adhere to them, or even the traditions themselves. The details of how these traditions work may remain elusive, but their efficacy in promoting survival is undeniable.

In the context of modern society, the quest for legibility poses a challenge. The state, or any governing body, needs to understand the population it rules in order to extract resources and maintain control. However, much of what makes a society successful is of the tacit sort, rarely articulated and messy. These aspects of culture are often the first things lost in the pursuit of legibility.

As our world continues to change rapidly, traditional customs and practices are at risk of being forgotten or dismissed. The rationalist impulse, which promotes the idea that behaviors must have explicable and declarable reasons, has a strong hold on the modern mind. Yet, the traditions that have been passed down through generations hold a wealth of knowledge and wisdom that should not be discarded lightly.

To ensure the preservation and benefits of cultural evolution, it is important to take actionable steps. Here are three pieces of advice to consider:

• 1. Embrace and Respect Tradition: Recognize the value of the customs and practices that have been passed down to you. Instead of dismissing them as outdated or irrational, take the time to understand their purpose and significance. Respect the wisdom embedded in tradition.

• 2. Engage with the Community: Whether it's through Product Hunt or any other platform, actively engage with the community surrounding your product or idea. Listen to their requests and concerns, and provide instant gratification whenever possible. This will not only foster a sense of loyalty but also help you gather valuable feedback for future iterations.

• 3. Test Hypotheses and Adapt: When launching a product or embarking on a new venture, have a clear focus and objective in mind. Form hypotheses about how people will use your product and test those hypotheses. Be open to feedback and adapt your approach accordingly. By staying engaged with your audience, you can ensure sustained growth and success.

In conclusion, tradition and cultural evolution are forces that deserve our respect and attention. They hold wisdom that surpasses our individual intellect and rationality. By embracing tradition, engaging with the community, and adapting to feedback, we can harness the power of cultural evolution for our own benefit. The rationalist impulse may be strong, but tradition has stood the test of time and continues to guide us in ways we may not fully comprehend.