Examining the suitability of extant primates as models of hominin stone tool culture

Abstract

Extant primates, especially chimpanzees, are often used as models for pre-modern hominin (henceforth: hominin) behaviour, anatomy and cognition. In particular, as hominin behaviour cannot be inferred from archaeological remains and artefacts alone, extant primates (including modern humans) are used as a ‘time machine’ to reconstruct the technological repertoires of our early ancestors. Whilst many continue to use primates to approximate hominin tool behaviours, others have questioned the value of these comparisons. The aim of this review is to critically examine how previous studies have compared various primate species to hominins with regards to stone percussion and flaking, as well as to discuss the limitations and strengths of these comparisons. Evidence is presented to support the view that certain monkey species, alongside non-primate animal species, might provide important insights when reconstructing hominin stone tool culture, despite being phylogenetically further removed from our lineage. In conclusion, whilst some studies may inflate the value of primates as models for early hominins, data from extant primates, alongside the archaeological record and anthropological reports, can help create a more comprehensive picture of hominin stone tool culture.