Human thinking is shaped by cultural learning from "summary" of A Natural History of Human Thinking by Michael Tomasello
In humans, thinking is fundamentally shaped by cultural learning. This means that the way we think, perceive, and understand the world around us is heavily influenced by the cultural norms, beliefs, and practices that we are exposed to from an early age. Cultural learning plays a crucial role in shaping our cognitive processes, social interactions, and problem-solving abilities.
From a young age, humans are immersed in a cultural environment that shapes the way they think about themselves and others. Children learn to perceive the world through the lens of their cultural beliefs and values, which in turn influences their cognitive development. For example, children raised in collectivist cultures may place greater emphasis on group harmony and cooperation, while those raised in individualistic cultures may prioritize personal achievement and independence.
Cultural learning also influences the way humans communicate and interact with one another. Language, as a key component of culture, shapes the way individuals express their thoughts, emotions, and intentions. Through language, individuals learn to navigate social situations, convey information, and coordinate their actions with others. The ability to communicate effectively is essential for building relationships, solving problems, and achieving common goals.
Furthermore, cultural learning plays a critical role in shaping human cognition and decision-making processes. Humans learn to interpret and respond to the world around them based on the cultural norms and practices they have internalized. This cultural knowledge informs their beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors, influencing how they perceive themselves and others, make choices, and navigate complex social environments.The concept that human thinking is shaped by cultural learning underscores the interconnected nature of cognition, culture, and social interaction. By understanding how cultural learning influences our cognitive processes and behaviors, we can gain insight into the rich complexity of human thinking and the ways in which culture shapes our understanding of the world.
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