Book

Calvin, William H., 1939-

The ascent of mind : Ice Age climates and the evolution of intelligence / William H. Calvin.

New York : Bantam Books, 1991.

xvi, 302 pages : illustrations ; 24 cm

Calvin journeys around the world to show how drastic and frequent climatic changes affected our ancient ancestors in dramatic, life- altering ways--that in matching wits with the undependable prehistoric climate, early humans first developed the capacities for society, culture, and ethics.

Human evolution.

Brain -- Evolution.

Consciousness.

Includes bibliographical references and index (pages 250-281).

Following the gulf stream to Europe: tracking climate change and human evolution -- Incrementing intelligence: a principle of nature -- Finding a fast track to the big brain: how climate pumps up complexity -- Neandertal country: some consequences of a fickle climate -- Over the pole: surveying the Ice Ages from a seat in heaven -- Mount Rainier: growing up in a boom time -- Whidbey island: ratcheting up brain size -- Hand-ax heaven: the ambitious ape's guide to a bigger brain -- San Juan ferry: Does consciousness emerge from cortical consensus -- Friday harbor: has intelligent life evolved yet.

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