We perform and imitate apparently impractical actions because doing so is the key to learning complex cultural skills, and because rituals create and sustain the cultural identities and solidarity we depend on for survival. Indeed, copying others is a powerful way to establish social rapport. For example, mimicking another’s body language can induce them to like and trust you more.

Connor Wood: Being copycats might be key to being human (2020)

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    Pathfinder/London
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    Essay
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    Anja Imiger, Julian Maier, Matteo Bianchi, Lukas Riener, Manuela Foscaldi, Carla Ringenbach
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