Final answer:
Paleolithic cave paintings indicate that early human communities had developed a form of communication and had social structures in place. They used art for different purposes such as depicting hunting scenes or for spiritual meanings. The sophistication of the cave paintings varies, showing the ability to symbolically represent their world.
Step-by-step explanation:
Archaeological discoveries, such as Paleolithic cave paintings, provide insight into the lives of early humans. These paintings are significant because they demonstrate that these communities had developed some form of communication. The cave paintings include various subjects such as animals, human figures, and abstract signs which could represent communication about hunting, dangers, or spiritual meanings intended by the artists. The complexity and sophistication vary from simplistic to highly detailed drawings, demonstrating the cognitive abilities and symbolic thought of ancient peoples, including the Neanderthals.
Cave art also suggests these communities had a form of social structure and engaged in rituals, possibly in religious ceremonies conducted by shamans. The detailed depictions found around the world indicate a shared desire to represent the world symbolically, as seen in both the European and Southeast Asian caves. Although we may not fully understand the precise significance of the cave paintings, we can establish that these communities were adept at creating materials for art and expressing themselves through these early forms of communication.