  We implement a method from computer sciences to address a challenge in
Paleolithic archaeology: how to infer cognition differences from material
culture. Archaeological material culture is linked to cognition: more complex
ancient technologies are assumed to have required complex cognition. We present
an application of Petri net analysis to compare Neanderthal tar production
technologies and tie the results to cognitive requirements. We applied three
complexity metrics, each relying on their own unique definitions of complexity,
to the modelled production sequences. Based on the results, we suggest that
Neanderthal working memory requirements may have been similar to human
preferences regarding working memory use today. This method also enables us to
distinguish the high-order cognitive functions combining traits like planning,
inhibitory control, and learnings that were likely required by different
ancient technological processes. The Petri net approach can contribute to our
understanding of technology and cognitive evolution as it can be used on
different materials and technologies, across time and species.

Computational Engineering, Finance, and Science