lecture 1- Human origins and the development of cognitive abilities

Question 1

what are the limitations of archeological methodology?

Answer 1

• No experiments possible
• Constantly under revision for understanding- more araechlogical findings are found

Question 2

what is bipedalism?

Answer 2

walking on two limbs

Question 3

when did bipedalism develop?

Answer 3

4.4 million years ago

Question 4

what are traits of homo erectus?

Answer 4

• Brain 60-70% size of human brain
• Use of base camps
• Used fire

Question 5

what are traits of Homo neanderthalensis?

Answer 5

• Large brains (but large body mass)
• Sophisticated tools, controlled fire, shelters, clothing, symbolic objects
• Social structures possibilities

Question 6

what are traits of homo sapiens?

Answer 6

Specialised composite tools
Transition to producing food 12,000
Industrial and technological revolutions

Question 7

how did bipedalism lead to the development of language?

Answer 7

may have led to anatomical changes enabling speech. Changed anatomy in the throat to speak.

Question 8

what were the selection pressures for the development of language?

Answer 8

• Adaptive advantages of language. Warn of danger, hunting, instruct.
• Communication increased survivability.

Question 9

what is the role of language in tool development?

Answer 9

• Culture-specific methods of creating tools.
• Show intelligence, planning and communication
• Complex and standardised tools