Hunter-Gatherer Insights Reveal Ancient Child Learning Methods
Originally Published 1 year ago — by Phys.org
A study led by Washington State University reveals that hunter-gatherer children in the Congo Basin learn essential survival skills by age six or seven through a unique social environment where knowledge is passed down by the broader community, not just parents. This research highlights the role of extended family and unrelated community members in cultural transmission, contrasting with the Western nuclear family model. The findings underscore the importance of egalitarianism and autonomy in learning, contributing to 'cumulative culture' and human adaptability across diverse environments.