The Prehistory of the Mind

How do our minds work? When did language and religious beliefs first emerge? Why was there a cultural explosion of art and creativity with the arrival of modern humans? This ground-breaking book brings the insight of archaeology to our understanding of the development and history of the human mind, combining them with ideas from evolutionary psychology in a brilliant and provocative synthesis.

"Readers will be entertained and provoked by Mithen's insightful synthesis of so many aspects of our evolution. It is a wonderful start to a new and productive way of thinking" - Roger Lewin, New Scientist

"A truly pioneering work" - Colin Renfrew

"The Prehistory of the Mind is set to join the canon of essential texts and is also an excellent read" - Colin Tudge, Independent

"Daring and original... it's a fine idea and a fine book" - Jerry Fodor, London Review of Books