What archaeological evidence shows that modern human behavior during the Upper Paleolithic was significantly different from that of earlier hominins? Do you think that early modern H. sapiens populations were behaviorally superior to the Neanderthals? Be careful to define what you mean by “superior.”
The Upper Paleolithic period can be characterized as a period of cultural changes and technological advancements for the hominins. A warming trend led to the melting of the glacial ice and uncovering of the vast territories covered by grass. The amount of herbivores increased and allowed early humans hunt more. It can be said that this stable and profitable situation led to cultural innovations throughout the place where people lived. Thus, the burials became more sophisticated (Sungir, Russia). Besides, people learnt to use new materials and create tools out of bone, ivory, stone. A spear-thrower was invented during the times of the Upper Paleolithic (Jurmain, Kilgore, and Trevathan). These evidence showed that the populations switched to hunting. On the other hand, the Upper Paleolithic is also known for its artistic representation (Jurmain, Kilgore, and Trevathan). Archeologists found a lot of cave pictures (Altamira, Lascaux) and sculptures. However, this evidence does not mean that the populations of early modern H. sapiens were superior to the Neanderthals. They were just better adapted to the environmental changes.
In the twentieth century, how did the scientific study of human diversity change from the more traditional approach?
Previous studies of human diversity were based on the issue of race. Therefore, the color of skin, hair and eyes was taken into account. The scull form also played an important role while distinguishing the race. Despite its biological meaning, the race has a lot of social implications. Thus, the representatives of different races were not treated equally because it was believed that intelligence and morality are related to the notion of race. However, the technological advancements of the 20th century allowed reconsidering this idea. The diversity is now studied on the basis of different DNA patterns.
Works Cited
Jurmain, Robert, Lynn Kilgore, and Wenda Trevathan. Essentials of Physical Anthropology.
9th ed. E-book.
