Can AI understand culture?

Since the consolidation of evolutionary theory in the 19th century, many scholars have believed that progress is a linear phenomenon. For it to succeed, one must be as rational as possible, make improvements every time and follow a rigorous set of rules that are known as the scientific method. During this time, certain disciplines such as the biological and physical sciences have been glorified as essential tools for human advancement-- all while leaving the arts, humanities and social sciences behind and deeming them less important for human growth. However, we are reaching a point where the traditional areas that were clearly delineated are blurring, and the once subordinated masteries that focused on the human experience are becoming essential. My background in biological anthropology has catalyzed not only a series of thoughts of possible solutions, but most importantly, a plethora of questions for the human context that lies ahead.