The Homo Naledi have been intriguing scientists since their discovery in 2013, challenging our understanding of early human life. In this episode, we explore the burning question: how did they end up in the incredibly difficult-to-reach Dinaledi chamber? From the possibility of using fire to lighting their way to the evidence of intentional burial, we are slowly uncovering the secrets Homo Naledi left behind. We delve into their potential cognitive abilities, including abstract thinking and symbolic thought, and what their burial rituals could mean about their understanding of mortality.

Evolution Talk is also a book! You can find links to Amazon, Barnes & Noble and others on the front page of EvolutionTalk.com, or call your local bookstore and ask them to order a copy.

 

Music in this Episode

• Whimsy Groove by Kevin MacLeod, Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/4623-whimsy-groove, License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

• Nightdreams by Kevin MacLeod, Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/4132-nightdreams, License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

• Crowd Hammer by Kevin MacLeod, Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/4983-crowd-hammer, License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license