Hypoxia in Paleolithic decorated caves: the use of artificial light in deep caves reduces oxygen concentration and induces altered states of consciousness
March 31, 2021 Yafit Kedar, Gil Kedar, R. Barkai
A novel hypothesis proposes that Upper Paleolithic humans deliberately entered and decorated deep, dark caves because the oxygen-depleted environment induced altered states of consciousness. Simulations of torch use in cave-like structures showed oxygen quickly dropped to levels that cause hypoxia, which increases dopamine release and can produce hallucinations and out-of-body experiences. The authors argue that entering these spaces was a conscious choice, informed by indigenous world views that understood the transformative power of underground, oxygen-depleted spaces. The cave was seen as a liminal space and ontological arena for maintaining cosmic connectedness. The caves' significance preceded their decoration, not the other way around.