[eno_]

So, if we have been genetically modern for 200,000 years or more, why did our minds become more powerful only 45,000 years ago?

[NotQuiteCricket]

So, if we have been genetically modern for 200,000 years or more, why did our minds become more powerful only 45,000 years ago?

That was my question too. Cause, like if we are the same "form factor" as it were, what tripped the switch to make us self aware (the rational why beads are accepted as instance of "modern" thinking - self decoration).
Anyone had any apples lately?

[Sacajaweau]

IMHO...All of man has the knowldege necessary for survival.

I always laugh at the "invention" of the wheel. Watching a rock roll down a hill is sufficient to cause this invention. The "invention" part of the wheel is use or purpose.

I remember picking up little shells at the seashore when I was a kid and putting them in a box for whatever reason. I suppose if I was real bored, I would have thought of making a necklace out of them or creating a purpose to suit my wants. I didn't though. I did however paint the little flat rocks we found along the shore. One might consider it "creative" or "intelligent" but frankly, I think it's no big deal and thousands before me would think of the same thing.

[dljordan]

We were genetically altered by aliens.

[Henchman]

Why did our minds develop only 45000 years ago and not 200000 years ago? Easy, until then we were 95% democrats.