The Origins of Human Swarm Problem Solving

Abstract

Chapter 5 argues that the origins of human swarm problem solving can be traced back to group hunting which required rapid problem solving during the hunt, but also planning activities. Collective actions build on synchronization in the sense that every contribution from individual hunters mattered. Another milestone was the emergence of premodern trade, which enabled human groups to utilize informational diversity from non-kin and even strangers. Knowledge was shared in new ways through large gatherings and trade networks. The third major achievement was the establishment of the first democracy in ancient Athens with institutions such as the Assembly of the People, the Council of 500 and the People`s Court. These institutions let a large number of individuals engage in rapid problem solving in a formalized manner. Individuals from all over the Athenian territory met in the city to solve societal problems. These historical examples show that human swarm problem solving is also a story about our ability to solve problems in increasingly larger groups.