AAAS Dialogue on Science, Ethics and Religion

News & Events: Public Lecture

Neanderthals: Who were they, what happened to them, how are they related to us?
10 October 2002

 

Scientists have long known that the popular image of the Neanderthal as a primitive, hairy, heavily browed, club-wielding brute is not supported by the fossil evidence. But to date, no consensus has been arrived at on the riddle of Neanderthals' disappearance. Drawing on the latest findings, Ian Tattersall will address the mysteries of the Neanderthals - who they were, how they lived, how they succeeded for so long, and what happened to them. In his presentation he will draw upon his own survey of all known Neanderthal fossils, work with Neanderthal DNA, and on other lines of evidence. He will also discuss what can be understood today about the relationship of Neanderthals to our own species Homo Sapiens.

Keynote speaker:

• Ian Tattersall, Ph.D., Curator of Physical Anthropology , American Museum of Natural History

Respondent:

• J. Wentzel Vrede van Huyssteen, D.Th., James I. McCord Professor of Theology and Science , Princeton Theological Seminary

Coverage:

Listen to Dr. Ian Tattersall
Listen to Dr. J. Wentzel Vrede van Huyssteen
Read the Summary