Group myths can create shared understanding even if they don't act as superstimuli

Behav Brain Sci. 2025 Jan 2:47:e181. doi: 10.1017/S0140525X24000785.

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.

MeSH terms

  • Comprehension
  • Cooperative Behavior
  • Game Theory*
  • Group Processes
  • Humans