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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Mar 23, 2026

Investigating the Function of Deep Cortical and Subcortical Structures Using Stereotactic Electroencephalography: Lessons from the Anterior Cingulate Cortex
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Human thinking, shared intentionality, and egocentric biases.

Uwe Peters1

  • 1King's College London, London, UK.

Biology & Philosophy
|March 26, 2016
PubMed
Summary

This paper critiques Michael Tomasello's theory on the evolution of human thinking. It questions his definition of thinking and highlights issues with egocentric communication biases.

Area of Science:

  • Cognitive Science
  • Evolutionary Psychology
  • Philosophy of Mind

Background:

  • Michael Tomasello's 2014 book, *A Natural History of Human Thinking*, proposes a theory on the evolution of uniquely human cognitive abilities.
  • The book examines the development of shared intentionality and cooperation as key drivers of human cognition.

Approach:

  • This paper provides a summary and critical analysis of Tomasello's work.
  • It specifically scrutinizes Tomasello's conceptualization of 'thinking' within his evolutionary framework.
  • The critique also incorporates empirical evidence regarding egocentric biases in human communication.

Key Points:

  • Tomasello's theory posits that uniquely human thinking evolved through specific social and cognitive mechanisms.
  • The paper questions the definition of 'thinking' as presented by Tomasello.
Keywords:
Egocentric biasExplicit versus implicitHuman thinkingShared intentionality

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  • Empirical data on egocentric communication biases challenge aspects of Tomasello's proposal.

    • Conclusions:

    • The critique suggests that Tomasello's account of the evolution of human thinking may require refinement.
    • Further investigation into the nature of 'thinking' and the role of communication biases is warranted.
    • The paper contributes to the ongoing debate on the evolutionary origins of human cognition.