On Mon, 11 May 2009 15:45, Wiley Long wrote:

>Wrangham's theories that tubers provided the energy needed for the growth of
>the human brain are unconvincing to almost all mainstream anthropologists.
>Few buy into his idea that fire was controlled 2.5 million years ago as the
>encephalization process began.  A key factor needed for the encephalization
>that occurred to create the human brain is DHA - certainly not provided by
>potatoes.
>
>Wiley Long
>
On Tue, 12 May 2009 08:53 Jim Swayze wrote:

>> I was hoping we might contain our excoriation of
>> a book's content and arguments until we have read it.
>>
>> Keith
>
>A fair response to William's comments.  What do you say about Wiley's?
>
>Jim Swayze
>www.fireholecanyon.com

Well, since you asked, I won't know till I have read 
Wrangham's book. Wiley refers to DHA being "a key factor" 
in the process of Homo sapiens encephalization. Let's see 
what Wrangham says about all of what he identifies as the 
"key factors". Wiley is bound to be right in that there are 
a number of factors. Which ones has Wrangham listed?
How does he rank their relative importance at the various 
evolutionary stages?

I'm not supporting Wrangham, but I do get disappointed by 
people who argue solely on the basis of their prejudices 
(that is, judging a book's arguments and evidence prior to 
reading the book). I'd prefer that people on a discussion list 
(it's not a "preaching list") hold out the possibility that they can
refine and improve their OWN position through discussion, 
research and then reflection rather than merely persuading 
OTHERS by the intransigence of their own position and contempt
for other approaches. 

I notice praise for the book by Edward Wilson and Matt Ridley.
These two know more about human evolution than I will ever
know - or could even understand. With their praise, I'm prepared 
to read "Catching Fire" with an open mind.

All of the above is a general observation and should not be
read or taken as a criticism of any individual - it's not
intended to be. And I can assure the two people who might
feel they are being criticized that I have great respect for 
them and often value their contributions here.

Keith