Re:False memories, or why we’re so sure of things we’re wron...
by hutzlibu on Thursday March 15, 2018 @06:25AM
(#16591601)
You're plant example is not really convincing. It would make much more sense, that only one tries it, in small amounts, and than later everyone. And this is what indigenous people also do.
Just "all go for it" would be evolutionary very hindering as there are many, many poisonous plants out there.
It makes sense in other scenarios, though. Or just in general, should we take path A or B. Doing a "maybe" decision won't get you anywhere in many situations. Like when you either have to go far in that direction, or in the other direction. Staying means starving, but finally reaching A or B could mean food. So it is better to go choose and be determined, even when you don't know for sure whether the prey really will be there and not the stronger enemy tribe.
Still true today.
Just not in all the scenarios, our "leaders" wants us to believe...
In the past when we were all living in little groups in the wild, it mattered to the person who was making a statement whether he really knew that this new plant you'd come across was edible and not poisonous. He'd have seen someone eat it, personally tried it, or had some firsthand knowledge of whatever the situation was. So if a guy said "let's eat this thing, I'm sure it's good" he'd both have skin in the game AND actually have evidence.
Nowadays almost all knowledge is second hand. Trust me, quantum tunnelling is a thing, and the earth is flat. But we're still wired to believe in the confident guy.