The First Signs

May 15, 2016

Written from a scientific and personal perspective, this work by Canadian paleoanthropologist von Petzinger allows readers to follow the author's scientific method, the pursuit of data, and her own impressions. In 2015, von Petzinger was selected as a TED senior fellow and presented a TED Talk titled, "Why Are These 32 Symbols Found in Ancient Caves All Over Europe," addressing her research into the cognitive and evolutionary importance of abstract geometric images in Paleolithic rock art, personal adornment, and portable art. The author's style adds immensely to the enjoyment of the book. Although the meanings of the suite of 32 abstract geometric symbols remain a mystery, that they are consistently repeated among archaeological sites separated by geography and time is strongly suggestive of the power of conceptual thought. Von Petzinger's findings are also significant for comprehending the origins of symbolic thinking and its timing with the appearance of anatomically modern humans in the paleoanthropological record. VERDICT An exceptional read that should capture the imagination of anyone fascinated by time, humanity, and prehistory.--John Dockall, Austin, TX

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