1stellarexplorer
Adding to the literature on care given by Neanderthals to the disabled, this report finds an individual with Down Syndrome who survived at least until age 6, and who would have required care during those years.
Patterns of healed trauma in adult Neanderthals, seemingly indicating care by others, have been known for decades. But the interpretation has been obscured by the uncertainty about possible reciprocation.
The finding of a young child receiving care is seen as significant in demonstrating this aspect of Neanderthal behavior (culture?), as the possibility of reciprocation is much more remote.
The more we learn about our close relative, the less the distinction we find between us. This finding bolsters that thinking.
https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adn9310
Patterns of healed trauma in adult Neanderthals, seemingly indicating care by others, have been known for decades. But the interpretation has been obscured by the uncertainty about possible reciprocation.
The finding of a young child receiving care is seen as significant in demonstrating this aspect of Neanderthal behavior (culture?), as the possibility of reciprocation is much more remote.
The more we learn about our close relative, the less the distinction we find between us. This finding bolsters that thinking.
https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adn9310
