Key Words culture, decentration, evolution

Abstract Speculation concerning the biological underpinnings of human culture requires serious consideration of both the similarities and differences in psychological processes that characterize the course of human and primate development. Unfortunately, the comparative analysis of specific adaptive functions that may serve as prerequisites for the emergence and propagation of human culture are met with entrenched scepticism grounded in an ahistorical conception of biological evolution and an anthropocentric constructivist view of human culture. Appropriation of higher cognitive functions and acquisition of language is essential for normal human development as well as the maintenance of contemporary culture systems. However, such psychological development must be understood in relation to immediate social and historical contexts. Among human and non-human primates socio-cognitive decentration and inter-individual communication serve as primary adaptive strategies assuring collective survival and providing continuity as well as evolution of cultural systems