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Not just symbolism: Technologies may also have a less than direct connection with cognition

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  14 January 2025

Annemieke Milks Open the ORCID record for Annemieke Milks [Opens in a new window]
Annemieke Milks*
Affiliation:
Department of Archaeology, University of Reading, Reading, UK a.g.milks@reading.ac.uk; https://www.reading.ac.uk/archaeology/staff/dr-annemieke-milks
*
*Corresponding author.
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Abstract

I expand Stibbard-Hawkes' exploration of symbolism and cognition to suggest that we also ought to reconsider the strength of connections between cognition and technological complexity. Using early weaponry as a case study I suggest that complexity may be “hidden” in early tools, and further highlight that assessments of technologies as linear and progressive have roots in Western colonial thought.

Type
Open Peer Commentary
Information
Behavioral and Brain Sciences , Volume 48 , 2025 , e14
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Copyright
Copyright © University of Reading, 2025. Published by Cambridge University Press

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