Chapter 1 - Why Humans Would Not Have Survived Evolution without Music

Summary

This chapter explores the deep evolutionary roots of music, arguing that its origins likely coincide with the emergence of Homo sapiens. Music, defined by pulse and scale, uniquely enables collective music making, a key factor in human survival and flourishing. The ability to synchronize movements to a pulse, a trait unique to humans, fostered cooperation, social cohesion, and positive emotions. This evolutionary advantage led to better health outcomes, conflict resolution, and, ultimately, a higher chance of survival. The chapter also delves into the intertwined nature of music and language, both forms of structured sound with distinct functions. It highlights how musical features in speech convey emotions universally, transcending cultural barriers. Research on infants further demonstrates the biological basis of musicality, with babies instinctively synchronizing movements to music and finding pleasure in it. This early engagement with music promotes social bonding, communication, and overall development. The chapter concludes by emphasizing music’s crucial role in human evolution, suggesting that its ability to foster cooperation and positive emotions may have been the decisive step that set Homo sapiens apart.