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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.

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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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