Evolving evolutionary psychology

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Cognitive Science
• Evolutionary Biology

Background:

• The dominant "Narrow Evolutionary Psychology" (NEP) perspective is challenged for its reliance on outdated evolutionary biology and cognitive science frameworks.
• NEP's claims of a scientific revolution are contrasted with ongoing paradigm shifts in evolutionary biology and cognitive science.
• Existing evolutionary psychology theories may not adequately account for human plasticity, developmental processes, or deep evolutionary history.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate which evolutionary theory best serves psychological theory, research, and application.
• To propose a more inclusive and comprehensive theoretical framework for evolutionary psychology.
• To highlight the necessity of integrating diverse scientific fields for a robust understanding of human nature.

Main Methods:

• Critical analysis of the theoretical underpinnings of Narrow Evolutionary Psychology (NEP).
• Review of contemporary revolutions in evolutionary biology and cognitive science.
• Proposal and justification of a Developmental Evolutionary Psychology Theory (DEPTH).

Main Results:

• Narrow Evolutionary Psychology (NEP) is rooted in past orthodoxies rather than current scientific revolutions.
• A more inclusive, developmental evolutionary psychology theory (DEPTH) is proposed as a superior alternative.
• DEPTH acknowledges epigenesis and integrates developmental science, developmental neuroscience, anthropology, and cognitive archaeology.

Conclusions:

• Psychological theories must embrace plasticity, evolved developmental niche, and deep history to be valuable.
• DEPTH provides a more suitable framework for understanding human nature and development.
• Integrating insights from developmental neuroscience, anthropology, and cognitive archaeology is crucial for psychological advancement.