Chapter 12: Modern Homo sapiens

altruistic

well being of others

African multiregionalism

The idea that modern Homo sapiens evolved as a complex web of small regional populations with sporadic gene flow

among them.

agriculture

The mass production of resources through farming and domestication.

atlatl

handheld spear thrower that increased the force of thrown projectiles.

assimilation model

Current theory of modern human origins stating that the species evolved first in Africa and interbred with archaic

humans of Europe and Asia

Denisovans

discovered in cave, 100-30 kya, large molars

foraging

Lifestyle consisting of frequent movement through the landscape and acquiring resources with minimal storage capacity.

generalist-specialist niche

The ability to survive in a variety of environments by developing local expertise. Evolution toward this niche may have

been what allowed modern Homo sapiens to expand past the geographical range of other human species.

grave goods (Ch 11

Items included with a body at burial. Items may signify occupation or hobbies, social status, or level of importance in the community, or they may be items believed necessary for the afterlife.

Homo floresiensis

Hobbit

Homo luzonensis

Philippines

Homo naledi

remains in the tight cave

insular dwarfism (AKA: insular dwarfing; Ch 11)

A form of dwarfism that occurs when a limited geographic region, such as an island, causes a large-bodied animal to be selected for a smaller body size.

microlith

Small stone tool found in the Later Stone Age; also called a bladelet.

ochre

Iron-based mineral pigment that can be a variety of yellows, reds, and browns. Used by modern human cultures worldwide since at least

80,000 years ago.