Inferring handedness from lithic evidence

• Published in: Laterality (Hove) Vol. 6; no. 3; pp. 247 - 259
• Main Authors: Rugg, G, Mullane, M
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 01-07-2001
• Subjects: Archaeology; Handedness; Origins
• ISSN: 1357-650X; 1464-0678
• DOI: 10.1080/13576500042000188

Until recently research into the origins of human handedness has been hampered by the lack of valid techniques for inferring handedness in pre-modern populations. A method developed by Toth for inferring handedness from lithic evidence, based on orientation of the cortex on lithic flakes, has produced promising results. However, this method is limited in applicability and has a variable signal to noise ratio. The authors describe a separate method, based on the orientation of the cone of percussion in lithic flakes, for inferring handedness from the lithic evidence. This method complements the cortex method. Some preliminary experimental evidence is presented which indicates that handedness can be inferred from lithic evidence using the cone of percussion method. Suggestions for further research are made.