Eleanor Scerri

In this thought-provoking discussion, Dr. Eleanor Scerri, an archaeologist at the Max Planck Institute, and Dr. Manuel Will, a lecturer at the University of Tübingen, challenge the popular notion of a sudden cognitive revolution in humans. They present evidence of a gradual development of cognitive abilities during Africa's Middle Stone Age. They also explore early personal ornamentation using marine shells, the significance of ochre in human culture, and the diverse pathways of cognitive evolution, urging a reassessment of our understanding of human history.

Eleanor Scerri, an archaeologist at the Max Planck Institute, reveals findings of hunter-gatherers thriving in Malta 8,500 years ago, challenging views on prehistoric maritime skills. Marianne Brasil, a physiologist, discusses the evolutionary 'obstetric dilemma' linked to human pelvic anatomy and childbirth complications. Richard Binzel updates on asteroid Apophis, emphasizing international collaboration for planetary defense. Finally, Sergui Pascu shares groundbreaking research on brain assembloids that mimic pain signaling, paving the way for new pain therapies.

Researcher Eleanor Scerri discusses the origins of Homo sapiens, highlighting debates on human evolution in Africa, the challenges of DNA analysis for ancestry, and the migration of Homo sapiens out of Africa. The podcast explores the complexity of human origins, emphasizing the diverse landscapes of Africa and the impact of climate change on human evolution.