Interdisciplinary Research into Cultural and Biological Transformations in the Paleolithic Period: 2nd Edition

Dear Colleagues,

The incredibly long Paleolithic period is still considered by some as a stagnant phase in human cultural and biological evolution prior to the emergence of our direct ancestors. However, extensive interdisciplinary research in recent years has clearly demonstrated that this is not the case. Starting from the earliest stages of human presence on the planet some three million years ago, an impressive series of transformations, innovations, modifications and adaptations characterize our lineage. These changes in behavior and culture occurred alongside biological adaptations in human physical properties, faunal turnovers and extinctions, as well as climatic fluctuations. This makes the Old Stone Age a vibrant, dynamic and lively epoch worthy of investigation, both at the diachronic and synchronic levels, allowing us to decipher the nature of the transformations that characterize the emergence, prosperity and legacy of our lineage.

This Special Issue, “Interdisciplinary Research into Cultural and Biological Transformations in the Paleolithic Period”, aims to present the state of the art, as well as out-of-the-box studies, regarding changes in human adaptation, human physiology, faunal diversity, climatic fluctuations and the possible nexus between these lines of inquiry. We especially seek innovative and provocative insights related to, but not limited to, the following: the emergence and disappearance of lithic technologies; the emergence and disappearance of human species and physical characteristics; turnovers and extinctions of prey animals; transformations in human diet and trophic levels; and changes in burial practices and symbolic expressions. No chronological or geographical boundaries are set, as long as the Lower, Middle, Upper and Epi Paleolithic periods are discussed. Particular case studies as well as more comprehensive overviews are welcome.

Prof. Dr. Ran Barkai
Guest Editor

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• paleolithic
• transformations
• adaptation
• cultural and biological evolution
• lithic technologies
• human evolution
• faunal turnovers
• symbolic behavior