In Jacob Barrett, Hilary Greaves & David Thorstad (eds.),
Essays on Longtermism. Oxford University Press (
forthcoming)
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Abstract
In this chapter, I argue that the field of cultural evolution can usefully inform attempts
to understand and influence the long-term future. First, I provide an overview of
cultural evolution, covering what it means for culture to evolve, the mechanisms by
which it happens, the crucial importance of cumulative cultural evolution for hunan
history, and how cultural evolution (and in particular intergroup competition) has
driven the rise of large-scale cooperation. Second, I draw out some possible lessons
from cultural evolution for thinking about the long-term future. In particular, I suggest
we should be careful not to prematurely ”lock in” certain values or other cultural
features, and instead aim for a society open to variation and competition. I also consider
whether the future will bring greater selection pressure for particular kinds of values,
such as patience.