Explore the controversial concept of cultural evolution in this thought-provoking lecture by Richard Lewontin, Science Board member of the Santa Fe Institute. Delve into the motivations behind applying evolutionary theory to human culture and critically examine the challenges of using organic evolution as a model for historical processes. Analyze the rise of modern anthropology, compare historical approaches with evolutionary perspectives, and investigate key concepts such as variation, immortality, stages, efficiency, and homeostasis. Examine the complexities of cultural transmission and natural selection in the context of human societies, and question the validity of applying evolutionary frameworks to cultural development.