2015-02-BON

AT THE CROSSROADS

François BON

Icone pdf   Download

Abstract

This paper contributes to the discussion of one of the central questions raised by the Aurignacian: can we really identify the mechanisms of a biological and behavioral coevolution in this key transitional culture between the Middle and Upper Paleolithic, associating anatomically modern humans with a range of accomplishments also readily described as “modern”? And if so, how did these different parameters influence each other? The analysis proposed here suggests that, above all, the reconfiguration of social relations was a decisive driving force behind evolution, directly influencing biological diversity through increased contact and intermingling between groups and populations.

To cite this article

Bon F., 2015 – At the crossroads, in White, in White R., Bourrillon R. (eds.) with the collaboration of Bon F., Aurignacian Genius: Art, Technology and Society of the First Modern Humans in Europe, Proceedings of the International Symposium, April 08-10 2013, New York University, P@lethnology, 7, 8-18.