A new study comparing MRI scans of modern human brains with Neanderthal endocasts reveals that Neanderthal brain size falls within the modern human range, challenging previous assumptions about cognitive differences. The findings suggest Neanderthals may have been more similar to Homo sapiens than previously thought, with brain size being a poor predictor of intelligence. This aligns with archaeological evidence and questions the theory that humans out-competed Neanderthals through superior intelligence.
Background
Neanderthals are an extinct species of hominid that lived alongside early Homo sapiens, with ongoing scientific debate about their cognitive capabilities compared to modern humans. Brain size comparisons through endocasts have historically been used to infer intelligence differences between species.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- Apr 28, 2026 at 07:05 PM
- Score
- 6.0 / 10