Homo neanderthalensis or Homo sapiens neanderthalensis? The relationship between Neanderthals and modern humans has been widely debated, and by extension, their taxonomic classification. Contributing to the complexity is the fact that there are 24 different species concepts used to determine taxonomic classification. Through a literature review, morphological, genetic, cultural, and demographic evidence related to Neanderthals was evaluated. When Neanderthals were first discovered, they were viewed through the lens of racism and biblical narratives, which influenced our interpretation and colored our perception of Neanderthals as savage unintelligent barbarians, mirroring the resonance of European/white superiority at the time of their discovery. Recent genetic data revealed interbreeding with modern humans, and archaeological evidence has unveiled aspects of Neanderthal life that were remarkably similar to modern humans, such as cooking food, home design, healthcare, and even fashion. Rather than being driven to extinction, it appears Neanderthals were assimilated into the modern human population. This recent genetic and archeological evidence has caused the scientific community to reevaluate the initial interpretations. In my capstone I found significant evidence to conclude that that Neanderthals were similar enough to us behaviorally and cognitively to support that they were the same species.

Dr. MacKinnon has encouraged me throughout my studies and helped me find my interest in paleoanthropology. She has been there to help me develop my project and answer my unending stream of questions throughout the entire semester.