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The evolution of music: One trait, many ultimate-level explanations

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  30 September 2021

Edgar Dubourg
Affiliation:
ENS-PSL, 75005 Paris, France edgar.dubourg@gmail.com, jeanbaptisteandre@gmail.com nbaumard@gmail.com
Jean-Baptiste André
Affiliation:
ENS-PSL, 75005 Paris, France edgar.dubourg@gmail.com, jeanbaptisteandre@gmail.com nbaumard@gmail.com CNRS, 75005 Paris, France EHESS, 75005 Paris, France
Nicolas Baumard
Affiliation:
ENS-PSL, 75005 Paris, France edgar.dubourg@gmail.com, jeanbaptisteandre@gmail.com nbaumard@gmail.com CNRS, 75005 Paris, France EHESS, 75005 Paris, France

Abstract

We propose an approach reconciling the ultimate-level explanations proposed by Savage et al. and Mehr et al. as to why music evolved. We also question the current adaptationist view of culture, which too often fails to disentangle distinct fitness benefits.

Information

Type
Open Peer Commentary
Copyright
Copyright © The Author(s), 2021. Published by Cambridge University Press

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