Peer learning and cultural evolution

In this article, we integrate cultural evolutionary theory with empirical research from developmental psychology, anthropology, and primatology to explore the role of peer learning in development complex instrumental skills behavioral norms. We show that imitation, contingent teaching, generative collaboration, selective copying contribute domain-specific transmission knowledge between peers. Stages characteristics inherent learner model influence how when children learn each other. Peer is persistent across societies despite beliefs favor adult–child some settings. Comparative hints at possibility children's greater motivation interact other may set humans apart primates. conclude by outlining avenues for future research, including individual changes social networks, motivation, cognition evolution.