Evolutionary science has led to many practical applications of genetic evolution but few practical uses of cultural evolution. This is because the entire study of evolution was gene centric for most of the 20th century, relegating the study and application of human cultural change to other disciplines. The formal study of human cultural evolution began in the 1970s and has matured to the point of deriving practical applications. We provide an overview of these developments and examples for the topic areas of complex systems science and engineering, economics and business, mental health and well-being, and global change efforts.
Multilevel Cultural Evolution: From New Theory to Practical Applications
Other Publications
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Williams' Rule and Its Relevance for Positive Change Efforts
Nov 14, 2025
Abstract Nearly every individual and society seeks to work toward positive change, but these efforts often perversely result in dysfunctional outcomes, especially when different aspirations collide with each other. This… -
Performance management in the prosocial market economy: a new paradigm for economic performance and sustainability
Nov 13, 2025
Purpose The purpose of this multi-voiced paper is to propose a prosocial paradigm for the field of performance management and management control systems. This new paradigm suggests cultivating prosocial behaviour… -
Evolutionary Mismatch and How To Evaluate It: A Basic Tutorial
Nov 13, 2025
ABSTRACT: Evolutionary mismatch is a state of disequilibrium whereby an organism that evolved in one environment develops a phenotype that is harmful to its fitness or well-being in another environment.…