Exploring our human origins: 'Beginnings of technological dependence'

From the earliest stone tools to fire and artistic expression, humans began the long journey toward a world dependent on technology long before the Industrial Revolution.

Join us on Thursday, January 30 at 6:00 p.m., for a special presentation from Kathryn Ranhorn, assistant professor in the School of Human Evolution and Social Change and research scientist with ASU’s Institute of Human Origins, as she provides a deep dive into how ancient innovations reveal the social and creative lives of the Paleolithic.

Learn how the development and use of stone tools not only helped human ancestors survive but also offer a glimpse into their social connections, cooperation and ingenuity. Explore how fire transformed human life, from cooking food to forging communities, and how early artistic expressions reflect the roots of human creativity. This talk will take you on a journey through millions of years of innovation, showing how Paleolithic people in Africa laid the groundwork for modern behavior and technological reliance.

If you’re curious about human evolution, this event will provide fresh perspectives on the remarkable ingenuity of the Paleolithic world.

Following the talk, enjoy special evening access to "Finding Lucy" - an exhibit celebrating 50 years since the discovery of the first human ancestor fossil who reliably walked upright on two feet.