The Missing Rules – Econlib

Exploring the Influence of Genetic Programming and Implicit Rules on Human Behavior

One book that has caught my attention is Nicholas Wade’s The Origin of Politics: How Evolution and Ideology Shape the Fate of Nations. This book delves into the intriguing question of what distinguishes sustainable and beneficial rules or systems from those that are fundamentally unsustainable due to their conflict with human nature.

During a recent discussion on Michael Shermer’s podcast, Wade highlighted the kibbutz movement as an example of a communal endeavor that clashed with human nature. The kibbutz movement attempted communal child-rearing, where children were raised collectively in a separate house rather than by their parents. Wade argued that this practice went against human instincts, as parents were naturally inclined to care for their own children rather than share equal concern for all children in the community.

Wade also touched upon the unique social dynamics within kibbutz communities, noting the rarity of marriages between individuals raised in the same kibbutz. He suggested that genetic predispositions, such as the aversion to romantic involvement with siblings, influenced these marriage patterns. While Wade posited a genetic basis for this behavior, it is essential to consider the role of implicit rules in shaping human interactions.

Implicit rules, unlike explicit rules, are unspoken guidelines that govern behavior within societies. These rules are learned through socialization and play a significant role in shaping individual actions. For instance, the concept of unassigned seating in classrooms may seem to allow for freedom of choice. However, a common implicit rule dictates that students select a seat early in the term and stick with it for the duration of the course.

While Wade suggested a genetic explanation for the avoidance of intra-kibbutz marriages, it is plausible that this behavior is also driven by implicit rules ingrained within the community. By focusing solely on explicit rules and genetic instincts, Wade may overlook the nuanced influence of implicit rules on human behavior.