Evolution and Social Life: A Radical Rethinking of Human Nature

In his groundbreaking book, Evolution and Social Life, anthropologist Tim Ingold challenges the traditional view of human beings as essentially selfish creatures, driven by competition and the pursuit of individual advantage. Drawing on a wealth of ethnographic evidence, Ingold argues that humans are fundamentally social beings, whose lives are shaped by their interactions with others.

A New Understanding of Human Nature

Ingold begins by critiquing the dominant view of human nature, which he argues is based on a false dichotomy between the individual and society. This view, he says, is rooted in the Enlightenment philosophy of John Locke, who argued that humans are born as blank slates, and that their identities are formed through their interactions with the environment.

Ingold argues that this view of human nature is fundamentally flawed, because it ignores the fact that humans are social beings from the moment they are born. We are born into families and communities, and our identities are shaped by our relationships with others. Our social interactions are not simply a means to an end, but are an essential part of what it means to be human.

The Social Origins of Human Culture

Ingold goes on to argue that human culture is not something that is created by individuals, but rather something that emerges from the interactions between people. Culture is not a set of fixed beliefs and values, but rather a constantly evolving process of meaning-making.

This process of meaning-making is based on our shared experiences with others. When we interact with others, we learn to understand the world in new ways. We learn to see things from different perspectives, and we develop new ways of thinking about ourselves and our place in the world.

The Importance of Sociality

Ingold concludes by arguing that sociality is essential for human well-being. Humans are not meant to live in isolation, but rather in communities. Our social interactions are what give our lives meaning and purpose.

Evolution and Social Life is a groundbreaking book that challenges our traditional understanding of human nature. Ingold's work is essential reading for anyone interested in anthropology, sociology, or psychology.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you are interested in learning more about human nature, then Evolution and Social Life is a must-read. Ingold's work is a radical rethinking of human nature that will challenge your assumptions about what it means to be human.

This book is also essential reading for anyone interested in anthropology, sociology, or psychology. Ingold's work provides a new framework for understanding human behavior, and it has implications for a wide range of disciplines.

Evolution and Social Life is a challenging book, but it is also a rewarding one. Ingold's work is full of insights, and it will change the way you think about human nature.

How to Buy This Book

Evolution and Social Life is available in hardcover, paperback, and ebook formats. You can purchase the book from a variety of online retailers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Powell's.

You can also find Evolution and Social Life in libraries. If your local library does not have the book, you can request that they order it for you.