Abstract
For the most recent evolutionary history of our species, that covering the emergence of anatomically modern humans during the last 100,000 years or more, few dating methods have such a wide range of potential application as luminescence dating. With its ability to provide direct ages in this time range for both archeological and depositional events, and using commonly occurring materials, luminescence seems to be an appropriate tool for almost any location containing modern or near-modern human fossils or artifacts. However, the method is complicated and expensive, depending on variables that may be difficult to estimate in any given situation. This has deterred widespread use, although recent methodological developments have increased accuracy and reliability. An understanding of the potential and limitations of luminescence dating should help students of human origins judge its value and evaluate its applications.
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