Final answer:
The tool-use model of hominid origins has been criticized for its inability to align with genetic evidence, reliance on non-evolutionary analogous traits, lack of experimental verifiability, and omission of horizontal gene transfer. It is overshadowed by evidence linking the evolution of tool use with the development of language and mirror neurons.
Step-by-step explanation:
The tool-use model of hominid origins has been rejected because it does not adequately incorporate current genetic evidence, is often based on analogous traits that don't accurately reflect evolutionary relationships, cannot be experimentally verified, and does not consider horizontal gene transfer. Archaeological evidence and linguistic theory suggest a significant connection between the invention of tools and the invention of language due to simultaneous developments in brain structure that facilitated both advancements.
Additionally, the concept of mirror neurons and imitation skills has been linked to the development of tool use and the emergence of gestural communication as precursors to language. The array of action-oriented mirror neurons, tool innovation, and language all progressed together in hominin evolution, with advances in tool technology paralleling the development of protolanguage.