On Humans An Unusual Ape: The Deep Origins of Our Human Oddities ~ Dean Falk
Apr 2, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Dean Falk, a Distinguished Professor of Anthropology and expert on human brain evolution, dives into our evolutionary journey after separating from chimpanzees. She explores the concept of the Botanic Age, where early humans began using botanical tools. Falk highlights the transition to bipedalism that shaped our ancestors and how it intertwined with the origins of language and music. Additionally, she challenges traditional views on brain evolution, suggesting cognitive development began before the Stone Age, offering fresh insights into what makes us uniquely human.
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Common Ancestor
- The common ancestor of humans and chimps likely lived in heavily forested areas in Africa around 5-7 million years ago.
- This ancestor was arboreal and probably possessed cognitive abilities similar to modern chimpanzees.
Botanic Age
- The "Botanic Age" refers to the period before the Stone Age when early hominids likely used tools made from plants.
- These tools haven't preserved, making it harder to study this era, unlike the Stone Age with its stone tools.
Great Ape Nests
- All great apes create elaborate arboreal sleeping nests daily, a tool no monkey uses.
- These nests provide safety and stability, showcasing tool use before the Stone Age.