Lithic Technological Evolution

Abstract Hominins have relied upon lithic technology since approximately 3.3 million years ago. Given its importance and durability, lithic technology provides the most extensive record of human technological behaviour. Studies of lithic technological evolution can thus provide insights into broader processes of human biological (e.g. cognition and manual dexterity) and cultural evolution. Lithic technological evolution is reviewed in three parts emphasizing theoretical diversity, the empirical record, and major discussions and debates. Specific topics considered include the earliest use of pebble tools, the persistence of large cutting/core tools (handaxes), the meaning of inter-assemblage variability, processes of microlithization, and the emergence and spread of groundstone technologies. A closing argument suggests that scholars seeking evolutionary explanations draw a logical distinction between models of technological origins versus those of persistence and adaptive radiation.