Borrowing versus migration as selection factors in cultural evolution

Journal of Conflict Resolution • Vol/Iss. 20 • Published In • Pages: 187-212 •
By Naroll, Raoul, Wirsing, Rolf

Abstract

This paper investigates two mechanisms of cultural evolution: peaceful diffusion and warlike migration. Two societies, one for each mechanism, were compared to a base society on 11 culture traits. Eight of the 11 traits diffused more readily through peaceful borrowing than through warlike migration. The authors conclude that eliminating warlike migration would slow cultural evolution but that peaceful borrowing is a favored mechanism for culture contact and change.
Documents and Hypotheses Filed By: mas  Amelia Piazza