When instrumental inference hides behind seemingly arbitrary conventions.

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Science
• Cultural Evolution
• Social Psychology

Background:

• Cultural practices such as game rules, etiquette, and supernatural beliefs are often viewed as "ritualistic" conventions.
• The instrumental utility of these practices is not always apparent from an external perspective.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review evidence suggesting that "ritualistic" cultural conventions are shaped by instrumental inference.
• To propose that perceived utility, rather than overt function, drives the acquisition and preservation of cultural practices.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent evidence on cultural practices and decision-making.
• Analysis of theoretical frameworks connecting instrumental inference to cultural acquisition.

Main Results:

• Evidence indicates that game rules, etiquette, and supernatural beliefs are influenced by instrumental inference.
• Practices lacking obvious external utility can be selectively maintained due to perceived internal or indirect benefits.

Conclusions:

• Cultural practices, even those appearing non-utilitarian, are often rooted in instrumental reasoning.
• Perceived utility is a key factor in the selective acquisition and persistence of cultural norms and beliefs.