Shared intentionality is the foundation of unique human cultural cognition
In short: Researchers proposing a new model of human cognition found that our ability to participate in collaborative activities with shared goals sets us apart from other species. While great apes and some children with autism can understand intentional actions, they lack the specific drive to engage in activities involving joint attention and shared intentions.
The authors argue that human cultural evolution—from language to social norms—relies on a unique motivation to share psychological states. They suggest this develops in human infants through the intertwining of basic agent-reading skills and a species-specific drive to share experiences.
Why it matters: Our ability to share goals and intentions is what allows for the existence of culture, language, and social institutions.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Research: Tomasello et al. (2005). Understanding and sharing intentions: The origins of cultural cognition. Behavioral and Brain Sciences.
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