In modern theories and tests of the importance of information sharing, social learning in groups and the spreading of information in social networks are known to be powerful mechanisms. Hierarchies and survival might be at issue. In the animal model based on mice it the scent that is the byte of information. For humans thinking of information or narratives are probably more appropriate. The story of Xmas has been spread rapidly and the kings arriving to bring presents testify to this powerful mechanism of information sharing in social networks even before the so-called social media existed. Ever since, written accounts of the story were added in addition to regular meetings of persons who continued to share the story. Add music and theatre to the transmission of the story and the mechanism reaches even broader audiences, and maybe devoted believers. As behavioral flexibility might increase as well, more than one interpretation or ritual of the same narrative is likely to arise over time. In the animal model food is the major reward system. For humans the reward systems are more complex with forms of delayed gratification. Information sharing about the importance of delayed gratification takes us into new spheres of humanity versus rational choice. (M-P Brussels).
