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Group myths can create shared understanding even if they don't act as superstimuli
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 02 January 2025
Abstract
Sijilmassi et al. argue that myths around shared ancestry and history exploit an evolved psychology of interdependence. In contrast, we argue that psychological exploitation is not required. Rather, such myths may be one method, among many, to create a shared understanding of group boundaries, which can be “self-enforcing.” We summarize the game-theoretic basis for this account and some supportive evidence.
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- Copyright © The Author(s), 2025. Published by Cambridge University Press
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Target article
“Our roots run deep”: Historical myths as culturally evolved technologies for coalitional recruitment
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