Ancient Eggshells Reveal Early Abstract Thought | Science News episode artwork

EPISODE · Aug 9, 2026 · 1 MIN

Ancient Eggshells Reveal Early Abstract Thought | Science News

from Science News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Ancient ostrich eggshells from southern Africa, some over 60,000 years old, reveal astonishingly complex geometric engravings—grids, parallel lines, and precise right angles—that defy randomness. A new study in PLOS One analyzed over a hundred fragments using advanced geometry and stats, finding that 80% follow consistent spatial layouts, including repeated patterns, rotations, and layered designs. This suggests early humans possessed sophisticated abstract thought, planning visual compositions before carving, hinting at deep-rooted human traits like pattern-making and meaning-creation that stretch back millennia. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/590e5cf7a52626e6

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Ancient Eggshells Reveal Early Abstract Thought | Science News

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