Rapid increase in production of symbolic artifacts after 45,000 years ago is not a consequence of taphonomic bias

Researchers have long been aware of an apparently rapid increase -40-45,000 BP in the frequency of symbolic artifacts in the Old World paleolithic record. However, some hypothesize that if not for taphonomic loss the data would instead show a gradual increase in such artifacts' frequency during the Middle Stone Age/Middle Paleolithic. We test this hypothesis by correcting the record for taphonomic bias. We find that even after correction, the -40-45,000 BP peak remains with no prior gradual increase. However, analysis also suggests this peak may be a product of research bias. We note small peaks in symbolic artifact production at -65,000, 75,000, and 115-120,000 BP, although these too might be a product of research bias. We end with a discussion of how symbolic artifact production might be expected to wax and wane as a function of adaptive pressures. This points to the importance of understanding the effects of taphonomic and research bias.

Automated summary

Researchers have found a rapid increase in the frequency of symbolic artifacts in the Old World paleolithic record -40-45,000 BP. Correcting the record for taphonomic bias does not change this peak, but suggests it may be a product of research bias. Small peaks at -65,000, 75,000, and 115-120,000 BP are also observed, but their existence might also be influenced by research bias. Understanding the effects of taphonomic and research bias is important.