Components of a Social Brain

Abstract

Human ecology is radically different from that of other animals, despite the relatively short period of time that separates us phylogenetically from other primates. Recent commentators have suggested that the unique cognitive skills possessed by humans may, in fact, reduce to a small number of primary adaptations for one specialized ability: social cognition, the ability to interact effectively and safely with conspecifics. Emerging research from the neurosciences has begun to elucidate the component parts of these broad social skills. Here, we review evidence that suggests that human social cognition comprises four specialized abilities: a coherent sense of self, the ability to keep track of the mental states of others, control over socially inappropriate emotions and impulses, and sensitivity to threats of exclusion or aggression from other people. We conclude with a review of recent neuroimaging findings that support the view that social cognition has a privileged status in the human cognitive repertoire.