Question

Which statement about Homo habilis describes a capability that helped their group survive?

A. They developed complex language skills.
B. They created advanced tools for hunting.
C. They used fire to cook food.
D. They could make and use simple tools.

Answer 1

The survival of Homo habilis was aided by their ability to make and use simple tools, which represents the emergence of critical cognitive capacities foundational to human evolution.

Step-by-step explanation:

The capability that helped Homo habilis survive was that they could make and use simple tools. This skill is significant as it signifies the development of cognitive abilities that played a crucial role in the evolution of humans. Homo habilis created basic stone tools known as Oldowan tools, which were used for tasks like butchering carcasses. These tools were the foundation for more complex tool making and may have been linked to cognitive abilities related to planning and problem-solving, which are also important in language development.

While it is true that later hominin species like Homo erectus and Homo sapiens developed more advanced tool use, control of fire, and complex language skills, the hallmark achievement of Homo habilis was the creation and use of simple stone tools, which aided in their survival.