The Evolution of Human Intelligence and the Power of Connection

The Evolution of Human Intelligence and the Power of Connection

About 70,000 years ago, Homo sapiens experienced a "cognitive revolution" that propelled them to spread across the globe. This revolution allowed them to surpass their rivals and establish their dominance. This concept of a cognitive revolution is reminiscent of David Christian's idea of "collective learning," which emphasizes our unique ability to share, store, and build upon information.

It is through this collective learning that Homo sapiens developed the extraordinary ability to unite millions of strangers around common myths and ideas. Concepts like freedom, human rights, gods, laws, and capitalism exist solely in our imaginations, yet they have the power to bind us together and motivate us to collaborate on complex tasks. Our imaginations are indeed our special ability.

Moreover, the shift to agriculture, often seen as a "mistake," should not be overlooked. While it brought about challenges and changes to human societies, it also led to specialization, the development of written languages, new technologies, and the flourishing of art. These are all aspects of civilization that we value and appreciate today.

In the realm of modern communication, the popular chat app Houseparty serves as an example of the power of connection. Its audience primarily consists of the younger generation, with 60% of users being 24 years old or younger. Houseparty's mission is to reintroduce empathy into online communication, something that is lacking in today's environment. It brings us back to the core essence of social networks - a place where we can connect with the people who matter to us.

Houseparty differentiates itself by focusing on actions that occur simultaneously, rather than individual actions that happen at different times. It prioritizes the connection between individuals over the content they consume. This highlights the importance of qualitative affirmation derived from human connection, rather than a quantitative affirmation of self. The platform places great emphasis on users physically appearing in the virtual space, recognizing it as the most important essence of connection.

Combining the concepts of the cognitive revolution and collective learning with the power of connection exemplified by Houseparty, we can draw valuable insights and actionable advice for personal and societal growth.

• 1. Embrace collective learning: Recognize the power of sharing and building upon information. Engage in lifelong learning and seek opportunities to share knowledge with others. By collectively learning and expanding our understanding, we can foster innovation and progress.

• 2. Cultivate empathy in digital interactions: As we navigate the digital world, it is crucial to prioritize authentic human connection. Focus on building meaningful relationships and creating spaces where empathy can thrive. Actively listen, understand, and support others in their journeys.

• 3. Emphasize qualitative affirmations: Instead of seeking validation solely through quantifiable metrics such as likes or retweets, prioritize the genuine connections and affirmations that come from meaningful interactions. Value the quality of your relationships over the quantity of your followers.

In conclusion, the evolution of human intelligence and the power of connection are intertwined aspects of our development as a species. By understanding and harnessing these forces, we can promote personal growth, strengthen our communities, and create a more empathetic and united world.