Social Learning In Animals: The Roots of Culture

by Cecilia M. Heyes (Editor), Bennett G. Galef Jr.

The increasing realization among behaviorists and psychologists is that many animals learn by observation as members of social systems. Such settings contribute to the formation of culture. This book combines the knowledge of two groups of scientists with different backgrounds to establish a working consensus for future research. The book is divided into two major sections, with contributions by a well-known, international, and interdisciplinary team which integrates these growing areas of inquiry.
Key Features
* Integrates the broad range of scientific approaches being used in the studies of social learning and imitation, and society and culture
* Provides an introduction to this field of study as well as a starting point for the more experienced researcher
* Chapters are succinct reviews of innovative discoveries and progress made during the past decade
* Includes statements of varied theoretical perspectives on controversial topics
* Authoritative contributions by an international team of leading researchers

411 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Thalia · Rating 4 out of 5]

By now there should be more current research on the question of culture and social transmission of behaviors in animal groups, but this book was an excellent review of some of the latest work on cultural transmission in animals.

Jeff Galef is the editor, with each chapter a contribution from a different researcher or researchers on their work. This book may be appreciated more by an animal behavior student or researcher, but should be accessible to someone with no background in the field, but an interest and willingness to read some of the literature out there.