2023-11-10 19:17:22
The idea is to study the imprints left by the brain on the “endocranium” (the inner surface of the skull). Stevica Mrdja / Microgen – stock.adobe.com
A study takes stock of the current strengths and weaknesses of paleoneurology and the interpretation of brain imprints on the endocranium.
How can we understand the cognitive upheavals experienced by human ancestors? Archeology is, without a doubt, one of the most reliable sources: artifacts from the past allow us to estimate the skills of individuals. But, in recent years, another discipline has been developing: paleoneurology. The idea is to study the imprints left by the brain on the “endocranium” (the inner surface of the skull).
These can be imaged and studied using cutting-edge technology. What can these imprints teach us about the faculties of now extinct human species? A new study, published in review Journal of Anatomy takes stock of the state of knowledge in this emerging discipline, and its limits.
Anatomical differences
«This discipline is becoming more and more important, but no serious calibration had been carried out», explains Antoine Balzeau, paleoanthropologist at the National Museum of Natural History (MNHN)…
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#understand #behavior #ancestors #studying #skulls