Figure 1.1: Summer on the beach at Barry Island, Wales.

Changing Stories: Unveiling the Group-Based Origins of Humanity
In chapter one “Changing Stories,” a compelling argument is presented for a group-based perspective on the beginnings of human civilization. Through a comprehensive examination of cross-cultural comparisons, primate research, and anthropological insights, the book challenges long-held beliefs about individualistic child-rearing and sheds light on the crucial role of social integration in human evolution.

Across different cultures and throughout history, it becomes evident that the majority of babies have grown up within close-knit groups comprising extended family and kin, rather than in isolated settings with only their mothers. This observation emphasises the significance of communal relationships in human development and prompts a re-evaluation of the prevalent notion that a child’s primary attachment figure, usually the mother, is solely responsible for their growth. “Changing Stories” proposes that our brains have evolved to cope with the complexities of group dynamics, drawing parallels with primate studies that reveal humans as “cooperative breeders.”

The concept of cooperative breeding suggests that our ancestors’ brains expanded in size to navigate the intricate dynamics of living in complex social networks. Just as other cooperative breeders in the animal kingdom rely on collective care to raise offspring, human beings evolved with an inherent need for social integration and cooperation. The book highlights the connection between primate research and human brain development, reinforcing the idea that our cognitive capacities expanded to accommodate the demands of group living.


Anthropologists further support the group-based perspective by suggesting that early humans thrived in tribal bands. This aligns with the notion that successful survival and progression required effective integration into a community of companions. Throughout human evolution, the capacity to form meaningful relationships within a group became vital for the well-being and prosperity of infants. “Changing Stories” challenges the assumption that infants need to acquire specific cognitive concepts before engaging in social interactions. Instead, it proposes that infants possess an innate sociability that enables them to adapt and bond within a social framework from birth.

The book offers three key reasons why this group-based perspective has eluded scientific scrutiny until now. Firstly, there has been a supposition that babies must develop certain cognitive concepts before they can actively participate in social interactions. However, “Changing Stories” contends that infants possess an innate sociability, indicating that social engagement begins from the earliest stages of life, rather than emerging at a later developmental phase.

Secondly, the prevailing attachment theory has emphasised the significance of a singular attachment figure in an infant’s early life. However, the book challenges this notion, advocating for the importance of multiple meaningful relationships within a community. By fostering diverse connections, infants develop resilience and adaptability, essential traits for survival throughout human evolution.

Lastly, “Changing Stories” questions the widely held belief that infant sociability is solely shaped by adult influence. Instead, it suggests that infants actively contribute to their social integration, and social skills are not solely products of adult moulding. By recognising the active role of infants in shaping their social connections, a more holistic understanding of human development emerges.

“Changing Stories” initiates a paradigm shift in our comprehension of human beginnings. Through a compelling presentation of evidence from cross-cultural comparisons, primate research, and anthropological insights, it challenges the prevailing individualistic narrative and emphasises the significance of group-based dynamics in human evolution. By acknowledging the innate sociability of infants and the necessity of communal relationships, the book invites us to re-evaluate traditional notions of child-rearing and embrace a more comprehensive approach to human development. Understanding the group-based origins of humanity provides a new lens through which we can appreciate the intricate interconnectedness of our species and the importance of social integration in our collective journey.hapter