The Relevance of Geometry to Understanding Human Evolution from the Perspective of Cognitive Domains and the Neurovisual Resonance Theory

Abstract

Abstract Since the Neurovisual Resonance Theory (NRT) was first presented as a way of understanding the preference of fossil humans for certain geometric forms, intense neuroscientific research has provided intriguing insights as to its relevance. The theory presented a novel approach to issues concerning the increasing interest in the symmetry of Acheulean handaxes and how such a proclivity was exapted for making autonomous engraved patterns. With the development of sophisticated neuroscanning techniques for assessing the active human brain when subjects engage in viewing or interacting with geometrical forms, not only do these new empirical data provide useful support for the NRT but they also indicate that the NRT has a wider application to understanding the precursors that make humans different to non-human primates. In this regard, the precursors that underwrite the sense of geometry will be explored and compared with concomitant cognitive domains such as language, reasoning, and number that will allow a more nuanced understanding of cognitive evolution. More generally, this chapter sets out to investigate those factors from the perspective of Material Engagement Theory and human evolution.