A Different Mind

Who knew Neanderthals could be so interesting? Reading Chapter 15 of Steven Mithen's book, The Singing Neanderthals, I was intruiged by the concept of a complex form of communication that didn't qualify as language. The communication of the Neanderthals, cleverly called 'Hmmmmm' (Holistic, manipulative, multi-modal, musical, mimetic), consisted of a limited set of "words" or "sentences," performed musically, which everyone used. They didn't say anything that hadn't been said (or almost said) before (228). The reason for this, according to Mithen, is that the Neanderthals possessed "domain-specific intelligence," in which they could basically only think about one thing at a time and couldn't make connections. With this lack of "cognitive fluidity," they cannot comprehend metaphors or anything connected to art, science, or religion. (233) It makes me wonder, where do we draw the line between humans and non-humans? Obviously Homo neanderthalensis are not the same species as Homo sapiens, but what distinguishes Homo sapiens as human? Is it the mind (intelligence), the heart (emotions), or something entirely different?

Neanderthals seem to be on our level when it comes to emotions. Mithen describes them as "highly emotional," having such complex emotions as guilt and confidence. They bury [at least some of] their dead (241), they neglect other duties to care for [at least some] wounded (236), and they work together very well in groups (238). All of these characteristics are reminiscient of modern humans. Even more so is Mithen's suggestion of "music therapy," or comforting song to reduce injury and/or stress (236). The Neanderthals seem almost like little children: highly emotional but not very intellectual. They are not able to make any innovations with their tools during their long period of existence--220,000 years! Yet, even children invent stories and imaginary games, so maybe Neanderthals are less intelligent still. I just think it's interesting how their musical capabilities are advanced (they all have perfect pitch!) while their minds lag far behind those of humans. However, this does support the idea that as one trait grows stronger, others grow weaker and visa versa (i.e. deaf people having extraordinary eyesight).

With the advent of the complex, cognitively fluid mind in humans came also the advent of religion. This could mean one of two things: either people's complex minds invented religion because they made up connections that didn't exist, or they were finally in the position to be able to recognize a religion/god that was already there. I would personally choose the latter, but there's no way to know for sure.