Astronomy in the Upper Palaeolithic?

Abstract

Beginning with Alexander Marshack's interpretation of engraved lines as lunar calendrical notations, a number of highly controversial claims have been made concerning the possible astronomical significance of Upper Palaeolithic images. These claims range from lunar notations, to solstice observances in caves, to constellation representations. Given the rare nature of artefacts and images that lend themselves to such interpretations, these claims are generally difficult to evaluate on the basis of archaeological data alone. However, comparative ethnology can provide at least a way of assessing the plausibility of such astronomical claims. If the premise is accepted that at least some of the Upper Palaeolithic groups were complex hunter-gatherers, then astronomical observances, or the lack of them, among ethnographic complex hunter-gatherers can help indicate whether astronomical observations were likely to have taken place among Upper Palaeolithic complex hunter-gatherers. A survey of the literature shows that detailed solstice observances were common among complex hunter-gatherers, often associated with the keeping of calendars and the scheduling of major ceremonies. Moreover, aggrandizers in complex hunter-gatherer societies often form ‘secret societies’ in which esoteric astronomical knowledge is developed. The existence of calendrical notations and secluded meeting places for secret-society members are suggested to be at least plausible interpretations for a number of Upper Palaeolithic caves and images.

Autism spectrum conditions affect preferences in valued personal possessions.

“…A small percentage of portable objects are in contrast however not aesthetically pleasing but a source of detailed practical information, analogous to modern data storage devices. Small pieces of bone have been used to record the phases of the moon and its position in the sky for example (Hayden and Villeneuve 2011). There are also examples of maps.…”

Skyscapes Beyond the Horizon

“…Anthropologists have recorded examples for hundreds of different cultures, and the sky usually plays a role in them (e.g. Lévi-Strauss 1970;1978;Hayden and Villeneuve 2011;Frank 2004). The challenge that faces the skyscape archaeologist is whether and how to use the archaeological record to infer such immaterial, but nonetheless important, cultural elements.…”

Are there alternative adaptive strategies to human pro-sociality? The role of collaborative morality in the emergence of personality variation and autistic traits

“…As well as new technologies (such as spear throwers, scaffolding, fat based lamps, storage facilities and intensive processing of starchy foods) there is also evidence for other new analytical ways of perceiving the world including mathematical notation, maps and calendrical systems (Hayden and Villeneuve 2011). The Abri Blanchard plaquette for example shows the phases of the moon and its position in the sky, and must have been recorded over many sequential nights using some type of recording grid (Spikins 2015a).…”