Did prehistoric humans keep souvenirs? Study traces habit back 500,000 years
A study by Tel Aviv University researchers suggests that the human habit of collecting souvenirs dates back 500,000 years. Archaeological evidence from sites in Israel shows that prehistoric humans collected colorful pebbles and unique tools, likely as personal mementos.
Why it matters
This research provides insight into the evolution of human cognition and the development of symbolic behavior and emotional attachment to objects.
Many of us are familiar with the urge to pick up a seashell from the beach or keep a stone from a trip. The object itself may be ordinary, but to the person who keeps it, it serves as a reminder of a moment, place or person. Where did this behavior originate? Did prehistoric humans do the same? A new study by Tel Aviv University researchers suggests the answer may be yes and that the practice dates back some 500,000 years. The study was led by a team of Tel Aviv University researchers, including Dr. Yoav Ram of the School of Zoology, Prof. Ran Barkai and Dr. Ella Assaf Shpayer of the Department of Archaeology, in collaboration with Prof. Liad Mudrik of the School of Psychological Sciences, Dr. Bar Efrati of the University of Oxford and independent researcher Tal Simon. The findings were published in the journal Evolutionary Anthropology.
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