Group-level traits can be studied with standard evolutionary theory.

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary biology
• Psychology
• Cultural epidemiology

Background:

• The target article critiques orthodox, gene-centric evolutionary theory.
• The article focuses on group-level traits but narrows its scope.
• It does not engage with existing literature on group-level traits within orthodox theory.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the limitations of the target article's narrow approach.
• To demonstrate the relevance of orthodox evolutionary theory to group-level traits.
• To suggest additional relevant topics for discussion.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis and critique of the target article.
• Identification of overlooked topics (cultural epidemiology, psychology of individual differences).
• Argumentation for the explanatory power of orthodox evolutionary theory regarding group traits.

Main Results:

• The target article's scope is narrower than warranted.
• Orthodox evolutionary theory offers substantial explanations for group-level traits.
• Key areas like cultural epidemiology and individual differences were omitted.

Conclusions:

• The target article's rejection of orthodox evolutionary theory is premature.
• A broader consideration of evolutionary perspectives is needed for understanding group-level traits.
• The commentary provides a framework for a more comprehensive evolutionary analysis.