60,000 years ago, humans were already thinking in patterns: What ancient eggshell carvings reveal about the mind
Engravings on ostrich eggshells dating back around 60,000 years may offer new clues about the cognitive abilities of early humans. Researchers from the University of Bologna analysed 112 fragments from archaeological sites in South Africa and Namibia and found recurring geometric patterns, parallel lines and near-right angles. The findings suggest ancient humans could organise shapes according to consistent rules, offering a glimpse into the deep origins of pattern recognition, spatial planning and abstract thinking.
