Final answer:
Engraved stones and symbolic artwork found in South Africa's Blombos Cave provide evidence of symbolic thought dating back more than 70,000 years. This art has led to a shift in our understanding of early human cognition, demonstrating a capacity for abstraction and symbolism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The evidence that led scientists studying remains at South Africa's Blombos Cave to suggest proof of symbolic thought dating back more than 70,000 years ago largely relies on the discovery of engraved stones and other artwork. The artists of these works created from ochre, used abstract patterns, believed to represent the earliest known artworks that depict abstraction and the production of symbolic art.
The engraved stones, although simpler than prehistoric cave paintings in Europe, created a major shift in our understanding of the cognitive development of prehistoric humans. Further evidence from this site includes engraved bones, necklaces of marine shell beads, engraved ochre remains, and over 500 fragments of stone tools.
While the meaning behind these pieces might never be completely uncovered, it's clear that they provide a peek into the lives and thoughts of prehistoric humans. These findings demonstrate that even tens of thousands of years ago, humans had the ability to symbolically represent their worlds through complex images.
Learn more about Prehistoric Symbolic Art