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They Weren't Such 'Neanderthals'

Early man brighter than suspected, researchers find

By Peter Fearon,  Newser Staff

Posted Aug 26, 2008 2:05 AM CDT
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(Newser) – Neanderthals were just as smart as their stone-age rivals, the latest research into the roots of mankind concludes. Scientific teams who learned how to make and use Neanderthal tools found their technology just as efficient as that used by Homo sapiens, reports the Independent. The study runs counter to theories that inferior intellect and technology caused Neanderthals' extinction some 10,000 years after Homo sapiens came on the scene.

"We need to stop thinking in terms of 'stupid' or 'less advanced,'" said one of the scientists. "Our research disputes a major pillar holding up the long-held assumption that Homo sapiens were more advanced. It's time for archaeologists to start searching for other reasons why Neanderthals became extinct."

Neanderthals may have been just as smart as their Stone Age rivals and their tools and weapons just as efficient, according to the latest research.
Neanderthals may have been just as smart as their Stone Age rivals and their tools and weapons just as efficient, according to the latest research.   (Getty Images)
This picture provided by the American Museum of Natural History shows a mural depicting Neanderthal life.
This picture provided by the American Museum of Natural History shows a mural depicting Neanderthal life.   (AP Photo/American Museum of Natural History)
Neanderthals may have been just as smart as their Stone Age rivals and their tools and weapons just as efficient, according to the latest research.
Neanderthals may have been just as smart as their Stone Age rivals and their tools and weapons just as efficient, according to the latest research.   (Archive Photos)
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COMMENTS
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New evidence debunks 'stupid' Neanderthal myth
Science Daily

Stone me. He's smart, he's tough and he's equal to any Homo sapiens
The Scotsman

 
extinction • homo sapiens • Neanderthals • Southern Methodist University • Exeter University • tools • Stone Age • Texas State University

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