How Tools Shape Thought: A Deep Dive into Cognitive Archaeology | Karenleigh A. Overmann | Director of Center for Cognitive Archeology at University of Colorado | Season 8 Episode 5 | #128

What can ancient tools, symbols, and writing systems tell us about the evolution of human thought? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Karenleigh A. Overmann, a cognitive archaeologist, to explore how our ancestors' interactions with the material world fundamentally shaped the way we think. From the earliest stone tools to the development of writing, we discuss how changes in human behavior reflect changes in cognition—and how these interactions continue to shape us today.
We dive into fascinating topics, such as how the visual system evolved alongside tool-making, why early scripts became more abstract over time, and how the very concept of numbers and zero took centuries to develop. We also explore the implications of modern technologies, from social media to artificial intelligence, and how they might be reshaping cognition in ways we don’t fully understand yet. If you’ve ever wondered how the mind extends beyond the brain and into the tools we use, this conversation is for you.