The Middle Paleolithic of the Levant: Recursion and Convergence

Abstract

Improved geochronology for the Middle Paleolithic Levant reveals a “recursive” trajectory to several important dimensions of archaeological variability. This paper argues these recursions stem from repeated turnovers of Levantine hominin populations. Neandertals and early modern humans appear to have occupied the Levant at different times. Nevertheless, the similar lithic assemblages associated with these humans are seen by many researchers as evidence for cultural contacts and evolutionary continuity. Closer examination suggests they arise from convergence in hominin behavioral evolution, probably in the context of competition for the same ecological niche.