Sinking In: The Peripheral Baldwinisation of Human Cognition

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary biology
• Cognitive science
• Behavioral genetics

Background:

• The Baldwin effect suggests learned behaviors can acquire a genetic basis over time.
• While theoretical models support it, direct empirical evidence for the Baldwin effect is scarce.
• Understanding this mechanism is key to explaining the evolution of complex traits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present experimental evidence supporting the Baldwin effect.
• To investigate where the Baldwin effect preferentially acts within cognitive processes.
• To link the Baldwin effect to specific input/output mechanisms in learning and behavior.

Main Methods:

• Review and highlight existing experimental evidence for the Baldwin effect.
• Analyze research on taste-aversion, fear learning, language, and imitation.
• Examine the role of specialized input/output processes in cognitive functions.

Main Results:

• The Baldwin effect appears to act on peripheral, not central, cognitive processes.
• Specialized input and output systems are crucial for efficient learning and behavioral expression.
• These systems function analogously to 'scanner' and 'printer' interfaces for core cognitive processes.

Conclusions:

• The Baldwin effect provides a plausible explanation for the evolution of complex behaviors.
• Empirical evidence suggests the Baldwin effect influences peripheral cognitive mechanisms.
• The efficiency of learned behaviors relies on adaptively specialized input/output processes, supporting the Baldwin effect's role.