Brain size has also tripled in the millions of years that humans have evolved. With this change, our behavior has become more detailed. Small-brained species called hominins could only make simple stone tools. Later, our more intelligent ancestors developed sophisticated tools and more sophisticated strategies. Our own species, homo sapiens, has made progress throughout history that has enabled us to come to this day.
Scientists have long assumed that increasing brain size is related to technological and cognitive progress. But new research out of South Africa has shown that small-brained species may also have engaged in some complex behavior. Three preprint articles containing the findings, which are planned to be published on eLife later, were shared on biORxiv recently.
Small-brained human species are thought to have buried their dead, lit fires, and even made drawings on walls.
The team, led by paleoanthropologist Lee Berger working near Johannesburg, found evidence at the fossil site that the small-brained human species, homo nalendine, was able to engage in a variety of behaviors previously associated with large-brained hominins. According to the findings, this species, whose brain is one-third our own, may have used fire as a light source. In addition, it is thought that they may have buried their dead and even painted symbolic patterns on the walls of the caves.
It should be noted that the Homo nalendi species was added to the homonin species relatively recently. Studies conducted in Johannesburg in 2014 revealed 1500 fossil specimens of this species. With a brain measuring between 450 and 600 cubic centimeters, this species could walk and had deft hands, just like modern humans. Their shoulders were structured to allow them to climb. A study published in 2017 also revealed that homo nalendi lived between 236,000 and 335,000 years ago.
Researchers think the species entered caves to bury their dead. They add that the evidence found in two places shows that the bodies were placed in pits and covered with earth. If that’s the case, they were homonymous, perhaps using fire to illuminate the darkness. Reaching the burnt pieces when entering the depths of the caves also strengthens this possibility.
Also, designs carved into cave walls also include things like squares, triangles, and X’s, suggesting that the species may have made drawings. The team goes without saying that it is surprising that such a small-brained species can make art.
There are also researchers who say their findings are not convincing and more studies are needed.
Of course, it should be noted that this research is not conclusive, and there are researchers who are not convinced. Some experts who were not involved in the study, such as archaeologist Paul Pettitt of Durham University in England and archaeologist Michael Petraglia of Griffith University in Australia, say the findings are not enough to draw these conclusions and more research is needed.
It should be noted, however, that the findings are surprising. If future research supports this, what is known about the relationship between brain size and development may reshape, and scientists may have to rethink the issue of human evolution.
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