The Problem Solving Brain

We as a species do not possess many special talents, we are not fast or strong, we do not have superior senses, or the ability to survive extreme climates. What we do have is a brain that is wired for problem solving and opposable thumbs. These two skills are what brought us to the being on of the most dominate species on the planet, from living in caves to building skyscrapers. Our ability to problem solve can only vaguely be replicated by computers and while many species possess such a skill it is usually relegated to survival. What circumstances gave us an evolved problem solving ability? Why do some people forgo their evolved problem solving for a lesser for of survival problem solving? Are we at the peak of our problem solving ability or is there more to discover?