Our Descent Into Madness

Struggling for survival, Neandertals turned to cannibalism—even brain-eating—some 43,000 years ago, says a new study of mutilated bones discovered in a Spanish cave.

Oh no!

A recent study examined the bones of at least eight fossilized individuals that showed tell-tale signs of cannibalism, like defleshing (what a great word) and dismemberment.

The manner in which the fossil skeletons were broken apart is also telling, the study teams says.

Bones and skulls look to have been smashed open to get at the marrow and brains inside, [Antonio Rosas of the National Museum of Natural Sciences in Madrid] said. “Brain is quite nutritious for fat and proteins, but especially fat,” he added.