Paleoanthropologist …show more content…
Researchers led by paleoanthropologist Lee Berger concludes that the several thousands of bones they uncovered are the remains of the unknown species, Homo naledi (Mckie). The discovery of the new species sparked a plethora of controversies. Homo naledi’s physical features represent both primitive and modern characteristics. Berger and his team deduced that there is significant differences in characteristics between H. naledi and H. erectus. However, some scientists claim the bones do not indicate a new species, but rather a known hominid species, Homo erectus. According to White, “Berger’s findings are probably South African representatives of Homo erectus (Martin).” Other specialists concur and support the notion of Homo naledi being an unknown species. The scientists whom agree with the idea of Homo naledi base their assumptions upon their analysis of the remains. Hawks, Wisconsin-Madison paleoanthropologist states, “Overall, Homo naledi looks like one of the most primitive members of our genus, but it also has some surprisingly human-like features, enough to warrant placing it in the genus Homo." Paleoanthropologist tend to base their assumptions on their own personal views of particular species. The biased views tend to cause great tension, and argument; for the reason that each specialist wholly believe that their research is correct and will defend their assumption regardless if …show more content…
At this time, A. sediba had the best representation in a single site than the previous hominid discoveries. A. sediba’s skeleton contained characteristics resembling modern humans and different hominin species. . In addition, the diverse physical features that a single species possesses effects the classification process. Depending upon the amount of viable skeletal structures found. The fragmented nature of some of the specimens cause great difficulties when scientist attempt to establish morphology. Wong’s article states, “The extreme mosaicism evident in A. sediba. Berger says, should be a lesson to paleoanthropologists. Had he found any number of its bones in isolation, he would have classified them differently.” In order to acquire valid assumptions about A. sediba, Berger spent years analyzing, excavating, revising his work before he published the Research on A.