Speaking, counting, writing

When did abstract numbers appear in written reports? How are they related to general writing skills? Did they come before or after? An article by Ivars Peterson in Science News (march 11, 2006) reports recent works by archaeologist Denise Schmandt-Besserat of the University of Texas in Austin.

Around 3100 B.C. abstract symbols for numbers began to appear. Abstract numbers do not represent single specific objects (20 jars), but a conventional sign meaning a numeral that could be associated with any object-simbol. And as Schmandt-Besserat claims: "The most important evidence uncovered is that counting was not, as formerly assumed, subservient to writing; on the contrary, writing emerged from counting".

The complex relationship that involves the development of writing has been investigated in two volumes: Before Writing (1992), How Writing Came About (1996).

Read the article ACCOUNTING WITH TOKENS IN THE ANCIENT NEAR EAST (2004) by Denise Schmandt-Besserat

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