Human Superiority
The author, Ludovic Slimak, argues in his new book “The Naked Neanderthal” that humans were the main cause of Neanderthals’ extinction due to their superior weapons and intellect.
Encounter in Southern France
Slimak discovered evidence of an encounter between humans and Neanderthals in a cave in Southern France, suggesting human involvement in the extinction event.
Weapons and Creativity
Humans’ regimented weapon making outmatched Neanderthals’ creativity, leading to their extinction.
Genetic Interactions
Despite genetic evidence of interbreeding, the nature of interactions between humans and Neanderthals remains unclear.
Controversial Theories
Archaeologist April Nowell challenges Slimak’s theory, suggesting that a combination of factors, including climate change and low fertility rates, contributed to Neanderthals’ decline.
In the ongoing debate about the disappearance of Neanderthals, the role of humans remains a central point of contention.