From Genes to Culture Summary and Analysis

All human behavior is influenced by culture that reflects the genetic history of the species. Psychological concept of gene-culture co-evolution involves cultural evolution with both evolutions being linked. The mind absorbs parts of the existing culture during its growth. Culture uses various elements, such as fear of snakes to create narratives and metaphors. Shamans enrich cultures through their experience of serpents in their dreams.

Evolution by natural selection creates new mixes of alleles which are changes in DNA sequences that improve survival. Genes assuring higher survival increase in populations that prevail over those with lower survival rates. Societies are created by culture while culture creates societies. Culture can be defined as behavior constructed by a specific language with language instincts and large vocabulary. It is difficult to determine when symbolic language evolves to create culture...