A team of scientists observes that a new species (Species X)tends not to copy exactly how a model uses a new tool;instead,they are very adept at figuring out on their own how to best use the tool.Conversely,another new species (Species Y)does tend to copy exactly how a model uses a new tool,paying attention to the behavioral strategies of the model.Based on this observation,what trajectory should we expect their respective cultural development to be like?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cumulative culture refers to the gradual addition and refinement of skills and knowledge over time within a group. Species X's tendency to figure out on their own how to use a tool suggests that they may not rely heavily on social learning and imitation, which are crucial for the development of cumulative culture. On the other hand, Species Y's strong inclination to copy exactly how a model uses a tool indicates that they are more likely to use social learning and imitation to acquire and transmit cultural knowledge, leading to the development of cumulative culture. Therefore, we can infer that Species X will likely not have cumulative culture, while Species Y will likely have it.

A Team of Scientists Observes That a New Species (Species