Question

How was Neanderthal behavior similar to that of anatomically modern Homo sapiens? How was it different? Are Neanderthals human? Use examples from Neanderthal culture to illustrate your points.

This is an anthropology question.

Answer 1

Answer: The anatomical features of Neanderthal that makes them different from Homo sapiens are shorter limbs, larger and more massive bones, larger brain and more muscular mass, flatter, broader noses, pronounced ridges over their eye sockets and receding chines .

Similarity:

• Both species buried the dead
• Both species used fire, hunted meat, and made tool

Difference:

• Homo sapiens used smaller, lighter weapons and tools for hunting, while neanderthals were more of a scavanger and often risked their lives by coming in close contact with their large animal prey while hunting.
• Modern humans had more neural activity and were more creative and able to communicate, whereas neanderthals did not have their own language or creativity (simple language skill)
• Neanderthal matured at a much faster rate than modern humans
• Development of trade among humans suggest an extensive communication network
• Homo sapiens have advanced tool making capability.