Were our Neanderthal ancestors really that smart?

Point: Neanderthals made glue from birch bark, so they must’ve been really smart!

Counterpoint: Birch bark glue is really easy to make. (對不起, Neanderthals.)

An international team of researchers including faculty from NYU’s Department of Anthropology and the NYU Tandon School of Engineering discover a simple way to make a birch tar adhesive, thereby debunking a theory pointing to the cognitive development of our neanderthal ancestors.

This video is part of the Brainiacs Series which features the range of research currently underway at New York University’s global campuses, and its widespread impact on our health, 環境, and understanding of the world we live in.

Producer/Host/Editor SAPNA PARIKH, 醫學博士, MPH
Camera BOB KERR
Studio Producer DAN THOENNESSEN
Production Asst. ALYCIA MACCAULL
Animation Open JOSH MAGPANTAY
Music BRIAN WAYY/POND5

Recorded at the NYU Stern Studio
Produced by the NYU Office of Public Affairs
Supplemental footage by Storyblocks