What do notches on stone signify in Upper Palaeolithic timekeeping?

Notches on stone from the Upper Palaeolithic period are understood as a method of tracking time. Archaeological evidence suggests that these notches served a functional purpose related to the organization of tasks, seasonal changes, and the marking of cycles, such as lunar phases or menstruation. This practical application indicates that early humans were developing ways to keep track of temporal rhythms, which would have been crucial for survival activities such as hunting and gathering.

In contrast, while artistic expression, religious symbols, and currency are important concepts in anthropology, they do not align as closely with the specific function of notches in the context of timekeeping. Artistic expression would imply a focus on aesthetic value rather than practical utility. Similarly, religious symbols would suggest a spiritual or cultural significance that does not directly relate to the operational aspects of time. Lastly, the idea of currency does not fit within the context of primitive timekeeping practices, as the notches were not used as a medium of exchange but rather for temporal tracking.