Print Email Facebook Twitter Measuring ancient technological complexity and its cognitive implications using Petri nets Title Measuring ancient technological complexity and its cognitive implications using Petri nets Author Fajardo, Sebastian (TU Delft Team Joris Dik) Kozowyk, P.R.B. (TU Delft Team Joris Dik) Langejans, G.H.J. (TU Delft Team Joris Dik; University of Johannesburg) Date 2023 Abstract We implement a method from computer sciences to address a challenge in Paleolithic archaeology: how to infer cognition differences from material culture. Archaeological material culture is linked to cognition, and more complex ancient technologies are assumed to have required complex cognition. We present an application of Petri net analysis to compare Neanderthal tar production technologies and tie the results to cognitive requirements. We applied three complexity metrics, each relying on their own unique definitions of complexity, to the modeled production processes. Based on the results, we propose that Neanderthal technical cognition may have been analogous to that of contemporary modern humans. This method also enables us to distinguish the high-order cognitive functions combining traits like planning, inhibitory control, and learning that were likely required by different ancient technological processes. The Petri net approach can contribute to our understanding of technology and cognitive evolution as it can be used on different materials and technologies, across time and species. To reference this document use: http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:bf06d625-4f80-4fb7-88be-8ec7923e16c1 DOI https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-42078-1 ISSN 2045-2322 Source Scientific Reports, 13 (1) Part of collection Institutional Repository Document type journal article Rights © 2023 Sebastian Fajardo, P.R.B. Kozowyk, G.H.J. Langejans Files PDF s41598_023_42078_1.pdf 1.3 MB Close viewer /islandora/object/uuid:bf06d625-4f80-4fb7-88be-8ec7923e16c1/datastream/OBJ/view