What is 'cultural evolution'?

Cultural evolution refers to the theory that cultures are dynamic and undergo development and change over time. This process involves the adaptation of cultures to new environmental conditions, technological advancements, and interactions with other cultural groups. Cultural evolution emphasizes that cultural practices, beliefs, and norms are not fixed, but rather they evolve through various influences including historical events, social changes, and contact with other cultures.

This concept is significant in anthropology as it provides a framework for understanding how cultures adapt and transform in response to both internal and external pressures. It allows anthropologists to analyze historical and contemporary cultures with an appreciation for the complexities of cultural change.

In contrast to this, the other options do not align with this understanding. The idea of cultures remaining static, for instance, contradicts the fundamental principle of cultural evolution that highlights ongoing change and development. Similarly, studying ancient civilizations without recognizing changes ignores the dynamic nature of culture. Lastly, while evaluating cultural artifacts is part of anthropology, it does not specifically define cultural evolution. Rather, it is a method used to gather data within the broader context of studying how cultures evolve.