Clive Finlayson’s examination of alternative explanations for why other types of humans (e.g., Neanderthals) went extinct and we (Homo sapiens sapiens) did not is an interesting read for people who are intrigued by evolutionary biology and related topics. In short, he challenges the conventional theories that assume “modern” man (aka ‘us’) survived because we possessed superior intellect and creativity.
Instead, Finlayson posits—and cites strong evidence for—the idea that climate change and its consequent migration patterns were the primary drivers of evolutionary success. When it came to favoring one human species over another, those who survived difficult times may have merely been in the right place at the right time, rather than having some natural talent for survival.
Similar to the ideas that Jared Diamond presents in his enthralling books “Guns, Germs and Steel” and “Collapse,” Finlayson claims that climate, and associated changes in the food supply, prevented or enhanced a species’ opportunities for growth, and eventually for domination of a particular geographic region of the earth. His ideas make sense and are, I believe, easily understood by the serious reader.
The writing becomes a bit turgid in places and Finlayson tends to over emphasize a few points, but generally speaking this is a very good book that will spark contemplation among thoughtful people. It deserves serious consideration, particularly now when the world is experiencing what looks like global climate shifts.