ABSTRACT
Human beings, among other animals, seemunique in the world. Eons ago, our hominid ancestors learned to control fire, to recognize a social link with each other, to maintain a bond with the remains of their dead, to engage in symbolic thought, and to fashion symbolic images and objects. We became persistent in our endeavors, developed the power of speech, devised codes of morals, and nurtured an ability to care for the helpless and aged. We also learned how to build, to create artificial environments that made our lives safer, more enjoyable, and more psychologically rewarding.
