Elke Bachler reflects on a review of The Dog’s Gaze by Thomas Laqueur, published on 17 April. The review described a scene: “Two fellow creatures, most likely a boy and a dog, stood together, about 10,000 years after the art was made, looking up at the walls in wonder.”
Questioning Assumptions
Bachler points out that there is no evidence the child was a boy. Archaeology emerged in the 19th century, dominated by men who interpreted evidence based on contemporary gender roles. Many earlier conclusions about early human lives have been challenged in recent decades.
A Call for Neutrality
Regarding the Upper Paleolithic, Bachler argues that “girl and dog” is just as likely as “boy and dog.” She urges agreement that if child and dog stood together at the same time—still disputed—gender should not be assumed.
This letter highlights ongoing discussions about gender bias in archaeological interpretation.
