Were prehistoric people capable of abstract thought, art and spirituality?
Yes.
"Prehistoric" simply refers to humans, their activities, and events before writing was invented. It has nothing to do with their imaginations or thought processes.
http://www.answers.com/prehistoric
To determine whether prehistoric people were capable of abstract thought, art, and spirituality, we must examine various forms of evidence, including archaeological findings and studies of early human behavior. While we cannot directly ask prehistoric people about their thoughts and beliefs, researchers have used these sources to gain insights into their cognitive abilities and cultural practices.
1. Abstract thought: Abstract thoughts involve conceptual thinking and the ability to understand and interpret ideas beyond the immediate perception. Evidence suggests that early humans exhibited abstract thinking. For example, cave paintings found in sites such as Lascaux in France and Altamira in Spain, dating back tens of thousands of years, depict complex and symbolic representations, indicating the capacity for abstract thought.
2. Artistic expression: The presence of cave paintings, sculptures, engravings, and other forms of artistic expression in prehistoric sites demonstrates the artistic abilities and creativity of early humans. These artworks often depict animals, hunting scenes, and symbols, suggesting that prehistoric people were not only aware of their surroundings but also had the ability to communicate symbolically and express themselves artistically.
3. Spirituality and belief systems: Many prehistoric artifacts, such as burial practices, ritual objects, and cave paintings, provide clues about the spirituality and belief systems of early humans. For example, the discovery of burials with grave goods suggests the belief in an afterlife or the presence of ritualistic practices. Cave paintings often include images of supernatural beings or religious rituals, indicating a spiritual aspect to their lives.
It is important to note that prehistoric cultures varied widely across time and geography, so the extent and forms of abstract thought, art, and spirituality may have differed among different groups. Additionally, interpretations of archaeological evidence can be subjective and may vary among researchers. Nonetheless, the evidence supports the notion that prehistoric people had the capacity for abstract thought, art, and spirituality, although the specific beliefs and forms of expression likely differed among different groups and regions.