the co-evolution of Technology and cognition in primate species

The History of Thought – Book One

An academic book resulting from 10+ years research into the effects of technology (e.g. physical, behavioral, or cultural adaptations; manipulations of physical environments) on cognitive evolution of humanity’s primate ancestors.

Co-written with Chet Sherwood, Professor of Anthropology at The George Washington University (also director of the National Chimpanzee Brain Resource, and member of National Academy of Science, Center for the Advanced Study of Human Paleobiology and the George Washington University Mind-Brain Institute).

Addresses a gap in the literature by reviewing the evolution of primate cognition from ~70 million years ago (mya) to ~1 mya, with a special focus on the interplay between cognitive adaptations, technological adoptions, evolution, and evolutionary niches. Then connects those adaptations to their modern relevance.

Central point: modern human thought and interactions with Technology can be better understood by deeply examining how and why advanced cognitive functions evolved in our primate past.

Pre-publication status – 90% complete; has been through 2 rounds of peer review at Oxford University Press, with the second-round receiving unanimous recommendations to publish.  Proposal is undergoing final edits before being re-submitted for final editorial board review. Book 1 of a two-volume series. ~450 pages; ~1,000 citations