Final answer:
Neanderthals likely had a sense of community due to the necessity of cooperation for survival, an egalitarian social structure, and the care for the sick and elderly, as evidenced by archaeological findings and the study of early human ancestors.
Step-by-step explanation:
One significant reason scientists believe Neanderthals had a sense of community comes from archaeological evidence and observations of contemporary hunter-gatherers. For Neanderthals, cooperation was essential for survival in a harsh environment, as was the case for early hunter-gatherer societies. Cooperation is often indicative of an egalitarian social structure where decisions and labor are divided among group members, fostering a sense of community. Additionally, the care of the sick and the elderly found in Homo erectus, a precursor to Neanderthals, further supports the idea of a tight-knit community. This characteristic likely carried over into Neanderthal society, as caring for individuals who could not contribute to the daily workload implies a strong communal bond and shared responsibility.
Indications of symbolism and spirituality, suggested by elaborate cave paintings, as well as findings of interbreeding between Neanderthals and modern humans, point to complex social interactions and cultural practices within Neanderthal groups. The sharing of knowledge, values, and possibly religious beliefs, are all strongly associated with social cohesion and community life.