Brutes? How cavemen had feelings too

DESPITE their reputation as brutish cavemen, Neanderthals survived for almost 300,000 years because they were compassionate, scientists claim.

A study of remains showed most had injuries that needed massage, fever management and good hygiene provided out of genuine feelings for others rather than self-interest.

Dr Penny Spikins, of York University, said: ‘Neanderthals did not think in terms of whether others might repay their efforts. They responded to seeing their loved-ones suffering.’

The study, published in the journal World Archaeology, undermines the traditional view of Neanderthals, who occupied Europe and Asia from 300,000 to 30,000 years ago, as thugs.