The results from this project will allow a reappraisal of the competing theories of hominid development in the Middle Pleistocene. This issue is one of the most important topics, not only in the Paleolithic archaeology of the Near East, but globally, as testified by the number papers, books and international conferences on this subject that have taken place over the last few years. Also the issue has a high profile in public awareness because of a series of magazine articles and television programs. The question of the role of Neanderthals in the development of our own species is fundamental to our understanding of human evolution, especially the relationship of 'cultural' evolution to biological evolution. Therefore it is anticipated that this project would generate a great deal of interest, not only among archaeologists, but also among the general public.