Social learning is a key aspect of human cognition from "summary" of A Natural History of Human Thinking by Michael Tomasello
Humans are fundamentally different from other animals in terms of their cognitive abilities. One key aspect that sets humans apart is their capacity for social learning. Social learning involves observing others and learning from their actions, experiences, and knowledge. This type of learning is essential for humans, as it allows them to acquire a wide range of skills, knowledge, and behaviors from others in their social group. From a young age, humans are constantly engaged in social learning. Children learn to imitate the actions of others, which helps them acquire new skills and behaviors rapidly. This process of observational learning is crucial for the development of various cognitive abilities, such as language, problem-solving, and cultural knowledge. Social learning is not limited to imitation; it also involves collaboration and communication with others. Humans are able to work together towards common goals, share information, and teach each other new concepts. This collaborative aspect of social learning is what enables humans to create and transmit cultural knowledge across generations. Through social learning, humans are able to build on the knowledge and experiences of others, leading to the accumulation of knowledge over time. This collective intelligence allows humans to innovate, solve complex problems, and adapt to changing environments more effectively than other animals.- Social learning plays a crucial role in shaping human cognition. By observing, imitating, collaborating, and communicating with others, humans are able to acquire and transmit knowledge, skills, and behaviors that are essential for their survival and success as a species. This capacity for social learning is a key aspect of what makes human cognition unique and sets humans apart from other animals.
