1L

How could the symbols predate mankind?

Previously overlooked patterns in the cave art of southern France and Spain suggest that man might have learned written communication 25,000 years earlier than we thought. They seem to have found evidence that some form of written language was being attempted by our Stone Age ancestors, an idea that – if substantiated – would push back the recognized birth of writing from about 6,000 years ago, as produced by the first agrarian societies, to an incredible 30,000 years ago.

the symbols shown in the book almost look like constellations - maybe it was for reference points of locations

There has always been some that believe that humans on Earth were predated by aliens from outer space...Twilight Zone music. I just watched document that referenced the cave art in Spain and France. Interesting information and could have substance i what they're saying. >3 bhabeck: theory is also possible. The early Native Americans used symbols to reference locations and Stonehenge is thought to also be a reference to location points as well as a solar calendar.

>1 Andrew-theQM: I find it highly unlikely. (Unless there was an intelligent race of apes that died out before we came on the scene...? Any other explanation and you're getting into the realms of sci-fi, IMHO.)

I thought the symbols looked like constellations. I don't think symbols could exist without some sort of mankind existing.

>6 Olivermagnus: Something had to exist.