Throughout the generations: Learning processes and knowledge transmission mechanisms as reflected in lithic assemblages of the terminal Lower Paleolithic Levant

Abstract

Social learning and knowledge transmission mechanisms are known to have played a key role in human cultural evolution. Findings from Middle Pleistocene Qesem Cave (420–200 kya) suggest that the cave's inhabitants learned and shared knowledge about stone knapping and other adaptive skills throughout the recurrent human occupation of the cave. Here I present the results of a techno-typological and spatial analysis of over 1000 flint cores originating from 12 distinct lithic assemblages of the cave. I will argue that spatial expressions of clusters of cores reflecting skilled and unskilled knapping enable the characterization of social learning mechanisms practiced by the cave's inhabitants. My analysis suggests that different areas of the cave were dedicated to the initial stages of knapping and to the systematic, high skill production of laminar items. A unique group of cores reflecting both skilled and unskilled knapping was also identified, mainly in the vicinity of the hearth. Forms of learning included trial and error mechanisms and sharing of knowledge. These social learning mechanisms led to high proficiency in stone tool knapping and especially in laminar production – a significant technological innovation in the Levant at the end of the Lower Paleolithic period.