Lithic design space modelling and cognition in Homo floresiensis

Abstract

Stone flaking is achieved through integral sets of geometrical identifications and motor actions collectively referred to as the 'flake unit'. Early trends in technological evolution involved elaborating the internal complexity of the flake unit and later trends involved elaborating the way that flake units were combined. Studies by developmental psychologists suggest that internal and external increases in complexity reflect advances in cognitive ability. Homo floresiensis combined the simplest type of flake units by arranging them in chains rather than stacking them hierarchically. Thus Homo floresiensis lithic technology does not indicate high levels of cognitive ability.