Shamanism and Brain Illness in Rock Art Production

Among the many generic explanations offered over the past two centuries for rock art production, those involving several brain illnesses and shamanism are selected for detailed analysis. These proposals are reviewed in light of the aetiologies of the psychiatric conditions linked to rock art. Some are related to the assumption that palaeoart was introduced through shamanism. Although no simplistic link between shamanism and brain disorders has been demonstrated, relevant susceptibility alleles might be involved in some shamanic experiences. No connection between rock art and shamanism has been credibly demonstrated to date. Moreover, the assumption that neuropathologies and shamanism preceded the advent of palaeoart also appears to be mistaken. It derives from the belief that palaeoart was introduced by ‘anatomically modern humans’ and on the discredited replacement hypothesis. These interlinked issues are discussed.