A new study combining ancient DNA analysis with linguistic and archaeological data suggests the Indo-European language family originated with the Yamnaya pastoralists who migrated from the Pontic-Caspian steppe into Europe around 5,000 years ago. These migrations, associated with the spread of wheeled vehicles and early horse domestication, brought the Yamnaya into contact with European hunter-gatherers, resulting in a genetic admixture that ultimately led to the Corded Ware culture. This Corded Ware population is identified as the source of later migrations eastward, spreading Indo-European languages across Europe and Asia.
Analysis of ancient genomes from burials in Germany dating to the Iron Age revealed a surprising social structure. High-status graves consistently contained women who were not biologically related to lower-status individuals buried nearby, suggesting that women married into the community from elsewhere. Conversely, men buried in lower-status graves were genetically related to each other, indicating they remained in their birthplace. This pattern suggests a patrilocal society where social standing and inheritance were passed down through the female line, indicating women held a prominent role in community leadership and power.
HN commenters discuss the methodology and conclusions of the study regarding an Iron Age society seemingly centered on women. Several express skepticism about the claim, questioning whether the burial practices necessarily reflect social power structures, suggesting alternative explanations like differential preservation of remains or ritual significance. Some also point out the small sample size and potential biases. Others highlight the importance of challenging traditional historical narratives and the possibility of diverse social structures in the past, while acknowledging the need for further research to confirm these findings. The discussion touches on matrilineality versus matriarchy and the frequent conflation of the two. Some also note the sensationalized title and urge caution in interpreting the results.
Summary of Comments ( 47 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42969038
Hacker News users discussed the methodology and implications of the study. Several commenters questioned the reliability of inferring large-scale migrations and cultural shifts solely from genetic data, emphasizing the complexity of language evolution and its potential disconnect from genetic lineages. Some pointed to known instances of language replacement without significant population change, highlighting the limitations of using genetics as the sole indicator. Others debated the specific migration routes proposed in the study and alternative theories regarding the spread of Indo-European languages. The discussion also touched on the sensitivity surrounding research into ancient populations and the importance of respectful and accurate interpretation of findings. Some users expressed concern about potential misuse of such research to support nationalist narratives.
The Hacker News thread linked contains a moderate number of comments discussing the linked article about the origins of the Indo-European language family. Several commenters engage with the findings, raising points related to the methodology, implications, and previous understandings of the subject.
One of the more compelling lines of discussion revolves around the complexities of inferring language families from genetic data. Some commenters express skepticism about the direct connection between genetics and language, highlighting the known phenomenon of language shift, where populations adopt new languages without significant genetic replacement. This raises questions about whether the identified genetic patterns truly reflect the origin of the Indo-European language family or simply the movements of a particular population. One commenter specifically mentions the "Kurgan hypothesis" and its previous standing, implying that the new study provides further support for this theory of Indo-European origins.
Another recurring theme is the challenge of interpreting ancient DNA and the potential for contamination or misinterpretation. Commenters acknowledge the advancements in the field but also caution against drawing definitive conclusions based on limited data. The discussion touches on the constant refinement of scientific understanding, suggesting that future research might further clarify or even challenge the current findings.
Several comments provide additional context and resources related to the topic. Some link to other studies or articles that offer alternative perspectives or delve deeper into specific aspects of the research. Others discuss the broader history of linguistics and the ongoing efforts to understand the origins and evolution of language families.
Finally, a few comments address the social and political implications of research on language origins. Some caution against using such findings to promote nationalist or racist agendas, emphasizing that language and genetics are complex and often unrelated phenomena. Others simply express fascination with the research and the ongoing quest to unravel the mysteries of human history.
While there aren't a massive number of comments, the discussion provides a valuable glimpse into the reception of this research within a technically-minded community. The comments reflect a mixture of enthusiasm, skepticism, and a desire for further investigation, showcasing the nuanced and evolving nature of scientific discourse.