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Humans are highly capable of tracking complex behavioral dynamics of crowds in our everyday interactions with the world. Imagine the sounds of a crowded coffee shop. Consider how individuals in that coffee shop might be interacting with each other. There may be some small groups or pairs, and many individuals engaging in small, temporary interactions―but these individuals are not coordinating with every other individual in a cohesive “coffee shop group.” They are just a jumble of individuals cohabiting a shared space.

Now, imagine the audience on the floor of a rock concert, cheering or singing along with the artists on stage. Alternatively, imagine the fan section at your favorite sporting event emerging into synchronous chant, or a chorus of resounding “boos.” Imagine how individuals in those large crowds might be interacting with each other. As they cheer, or sing, or chant, or boo, they are sharing similar …