Could Early Hominids Have Had Greater Intellectual Capacity But Gone Extinct Due to Human Aggression?

It is a fascinating question to ponder whether one of the early hominids, such as Neanderthals, could have had a greater intellectual capacity but still went extinct due to our more aggressive behavior in securing resources. The interplay between intelligence and aggression has long been a topic of debate among researchers, especially in the context of the coexistence and eventual extinction of Neanderthals and Homo sapiens.

Neanderthals: Intellectual Equals of Homo Sapiens

Neanderthals had brains as large as or even larger than those of Homo sapiens, suggesting they had comparable intellectual capacities. Their ability to survive in the extreme cold of the Pleistocene era, often in smaller, isolated groups, underscores their resilience and adaptability. The coastal dispersal theory supports the idea that early hominids could navigate and adapt to different environments, indicating a certain level of intelligence.

Is Human Aggression the Culprit?

While it is true that Neanderthals shared less than 2% of their DNA with modern humans, particularly non-African populations, this does not necessarily indicate a complete extinction due to aggression. Studies such as the Pleistocene Homo have shown that both species coexisted and sometimes interbred. The key question remains: was human aggression the primary reason for Neanderthal extinction?

Adaptability vs. Intelligence

Adaptability to the changing conditions is crucial for survival. Neanderthals were well-adapted to Pleistocene conditions, while Homo sapiens, migrating from Africa towards the north, were better suited to the warming climate. This suggests that while intelligence played a role, the ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions may have been the deciding factor.

Exploring the Evidence

To investigate whether a more intelligent species could have been driven to extinction due to human aggression, we need to look for concrete evidence. Here are some potential avenues of investigation:

Artifacts and Tools

Tools left by early hominids, such as those predating the appearance of humans, indicate a certain level of intelligence in tool-making. For instance, the Oldest tools pre-dating first humans suggest that even earlier hominids had the capacity for complex tool-making. Any artifacts that predate or predominate human counterparts would be key evidence of a more intelligent species.

Comparative Analysis of Tactics

The tactics used by early humans, such as ambush hunting as revealed in Fossilized Human Footprint, can offer insights into their hunting and social behaviors. If a more intelligent species existed, we would expect to find similar or even more advanced tactics, which could be compared with those of early humans.

Artistic Expression

The presence of tools, as well as early art forms such as cave paintings and shell collections, could indicate a higher level of intelligence. These cultural artifacts would provide direct evidence of a more advanced species.

Anatomical Features

Anatomical analysis, particularly in terms of dental structure, could reveal whether a more intelligent species had different physical adaptations. For example, if Neanderthals had significantly stronger teeth, it would suggest a different diet or lifestyle. This would help in understanding the nature of their adaptability and survival strategies.

Evidence of Human Aggression

Bone analyses could provide direct evidence of human aggression. If Neanderthals were the victims of hunting, we would expect to see clear signs of weapon-inflicted injuries on the bones. Similarly, if there was any engagement between the two species, we would find human casualties, especially if human burial practices are considered in the analysis.

While the evidence does not definitively support the idea of a smarter but less violent species being driven to extinction, thorough investigations into these areas could potentially shed light on the complexities of human history and the factors that led to the survival of one species over another.