1 Introduction -- 2 Origins of Language -- 3 Origins of Spatial Abilities -- 4 Origins of Writing -- 5 Origins of Calculation Abilities -- 6 Origins of Executive Functions -- 7 Culture and Cognitive Testing -- 8 Toward the Future.

This book addresses a central question: how did cognition emerge in human history? It approaches the question from a cultural-historical, neuropsychological perspective and analyses evidence on the historical origins of cognitive activity; integrates information regarding cross-cultural differences in neuropsychological performance; and discusses how adopting a historical and cultural perspective in the behavioural neurosciences can help to arrive at a better understanding of cognition. Lastly, it proposes general guidelines for future research in the area.