Unpacking the Debate: Homo naledi and the Question of Burial
The story of Homo naledi - an early human ancestors whose remains were discovered deep within South Africa’s Rising Star cave system—has captured imaginations worldwide. Featured in Netflix’s “Cave of Bones,” the claim that Homo naledi intentionally buried its dead has sparked spirited debate across the scientific community and beyond.
At the heart of this conversation is Dr. Jamie Hodgkins, a respected paleoanthropologist and faculty member at the University of Colorado Denver. Dr. Hodgkins played a pivotal role as reviewer #1 in both rounds of peer review for the recent Homo naledi burial hypothesis. Her insights offer a grounded, real-world perspective on how science advances through open dialogue, critical thinking, and a commitment to truth.
Science in Action: The Peer Review Process
Peer review is the backbone of scientific progress. It’s where bold ideas are tested, challenged, and refined. In the case of the Homo naledi burial hypothesis, Dr. Hodgkins and her fellow reviewers were tasked with evaluating whether the evidence truly supports claims of intentional burial—an act previously thought unique to more recent ancestors like Neanderthals and modern humans.
Dr. Hodgkins raised important questions about the behavioral claims made in both the preprint and the Netflix documentary. She noted that, in the revised paper, only two of the original reviewers agreed to re-review the work, and just one supported the burial hypothesis. This stands in contrast to public statements by the research team, who claimed unanimous reviewer support on social media.
Why Accuracy and Transparency Matter
Dr. Hodgkins publicly refuted the team’s claim of unanimous support, calling their social media posts misleading and potentially harmful to open science. Her stance highlights a core value at CU Denver: integrity in research and communication. Open science thrives when researchers are transparent about both their findings and the process behind them.
This moment is a powerful reminder that science is not just about discovery—it’s about dialogue, debate, and the willingness to question even our most exciting ideas. At CU Denver, we champion a culture where diverse perspectives are welcomed, and where students, faculty, and the broader community can engage with science as an evolving, collaborative journey.
Real-World Relevance: What This Means for Students and the Community
- Education That Works for All: CU Denver students learn to think critically, ask tough questions, and engage with real-world issues—skills that are essential in today’s rapidly changing world.
- Real People, Real Impacts: Dr. Hodgkins’ involvement demonstrates how CU Denver faculty are shaping global conversations and modeling ethical research practices.
- Innovation Mindset: By challenging assumptions and demanding rigorous evidence, our community drives innovation in science and beyond.
- Inclusive Community: We celebrate the diversity of thought and experience that makes breakthroughs possible, inviting everyone to be part of the conversation.
FAQs: Homo naledi, Burial, and Scientific Debate
Q: Did Homo naledi really bury its dead?
A: The evidence is still under debate. Some scientists, including Dr. Hodgkins, remain skeptical and call for more rigorous proof.
Q: Why is this debate important?
A: It challenges our understanding of what it means to be human and highlights the importance of transparency and critical thinking in science.
Q: How does CU Denver support open science?
A: By fostering a culture of integrity, inclusivity, and real-world impact, CU Denver empowers students and faculty to engage in meaningful, ethical research.
Learn More
- CU Denver College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
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