The structure of middle palaeolithic variability : a multivariate assessment
Date
1998
Authors
Moyer, Colin Campbell
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Abstract
Four theories concerning the nature of lithic variability in the Middle Palaeolithic of Western Europe and their corresponding evaluations of Neanderthal behaviour are examined using a critical, historical approach and a multivariate statistical analysis of 103 lithic assemblages. The critical examination identifies historical trends, theoretical biases and relationships between the archaeological data and theories concerning Neanderthal behaviour. The results of the statistical tests support the continuous distribution of artifact frequencies across defined assemblage types and mutual covariation within broad morphological tool classes. The lack of discrete categories argues against the stylistic interpretations of Bordes and the functional interpretations of Binford. Instead the results lend support to the Rolland and Dibble model which emphasizes raw material constraints and artifact reduction intensity. The results of the statistical research also support chronological patterns identified by Mellars and point to relationships in the data which have a bearing on the interpretation of Neanderthal behaviour.