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With which hominid species can we reasonably claim that human cultural activity clearly is evident? Evidence from the fossil and archaeological records?

User Antonmos
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Final answer:

Cultural activity is evident with Homo habilis and Homo erectus, as seen in their tool-making capabilities and potential for symbolic behavior. The archaeological records showcase the early signs of complex cognitive abilities. Anatomical features also indicate the capacity for language evolution among hominins.

Step-by-step explanation:

Human cultural activity is notably evident in the species in the genus Homo, including Homo habilis and Homo erectus. The archaeological records indicate the use of stone tools and possible symbolic behavior, such as art, which suggest complex social and cognitive abilities associated with early forms of language and culture. Homo habilis, known as "handyman," is credited with the creation of the earliest stone tools, and thereby marks a significant milestone in the archaeological record of human cultural activity. Moving forward in time, Homo erectus displayed advances in the complexity of tool creation and use, along with other behaviors indicative of cultural evolution.

The emergence of language, while difficult to pinpoint in the fossil record, can be inferred from the anatomical features of early hominin species, which include a reduction in jaw prognathism and an increase in brain size. Additionally, evidence of gene flow between different hominin populations, such as Neanderthals and anatomically modern humans, suggests cultural exchanges and the spread of technologies.

User Robstarbuck
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