I just read “The Dragons Of Eden” by Carl Sagan. Here are some things I learned.
As a part of my 2024 goal of reading 50 books (and writing down what I learn from each), I rang in the new year with finishing “The Dragons of Eden: Speculations on the Evolution of Human Intelligence.” In this short exploration, Sagan traces human intelligence on a remarkable evolutionary path, delving into the mechanisms and evironmental forces that may have influenced its growth. He presents his concepts in a fascinating amalgamation of anthropology, evolutionary biology, psychology, and computer science. Here are some of my favorite concepts from the book:
Extra-genetic Learning System: Central to Sagan’s thesis is the concept of the “extra-genetic learning system.” This theory posits that human progress hinges significantly on our ability to transfer knowledge across generations and peers without relying solely on genetic inheritance or personal trial and error. It is similar to a concept I outlined in my article on time. This capability dramatically speeds up our learning processes, enabling swift adaptation to changing environments and advancing survival skills beyond the slow pace of genetic evolution.
Evolution and Civilization: Sagan insightfully discusses how evolutionary systems and the principles of natural selection are not entirely applicable to human civilization. Unlike the ruthless efficiency of nature’s selective processes, human societies strive to protect and support their most vulnerable members, thus creating a unique dynamic where natural selection is mitigated by cultural and societal constructs.
Cosmic Calendar and Contextual Tools: Sagan employs innovative tools like the Cosmic Calendar to make vast, complex concepts like the age of the universe more comprehensible. These contextual tools allow humans to grasp larger abstract ideas and incorporate them into their worldview. However, I do have to speculate that such simplifications carry the risk of bias and misunderstanding, highlighting the double-edged nature of cultural information mechanisms in shaping our understanding of the world. It was an inspirational example of a brilliant tool to help our tiny brains understand a cosmic concept, and of a kind that I hope to explore further in my writing.
Corpus Callosum and Cultural Integration: In a striking analogy, Sagan compares human civilization to the corpus callosum in the brain. Just as this brain structure facilitates communication and cooperation between the brain’s hemispheres, allowing left and right brained thinkging to collaborate, Sagan suggests that a similar “communication medium” is essential in society. By encouraging interaction between opposing cultural viewpoints, we can foster mutual learning and benefit. The corpus callosum, crucial for various cognitive functions, including memory, learning, and vision, thus becomes a metaphor for the integrative processes necessary in a diverse, often divided society.
As the book came to a close, Sagan emphasizes the need for new thinking in the face of unprecedented challenges with a quote from Abe Lincoln:
“The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present. The occasion is piled high with difficulty, and we must rise with the occasion. As our case is new, so we must think anew, and act anew.”
I felt that this sentiment encapsulates the essence of “The Dragons of Eden” — a call for innovative thought and action in understanding and harnessing human intelligence. Sagan concludes with a profound reminder of the essence of science:
“Science is only a Latin word for knowledge. Knowledge is our destiny.”
The accumulation of human knowledge, no matter the immediate utilization and social benefit, is the greatest state for which we can strive as a species. Knowledge is a powerful testament for the unending human quest for understanding, and is the essential tool we wield on a journey of survival. As Sagan knew and discussed throughout his entire life — Knowledge is as much our destiny as it is a tool for shaping it.
