THE SUBTLETIES OF THE SEAS:THOUGHTS ON MEDITERRANEAN ISLAND BIOGEOGRAPHY

Abstract

Mathematical principles developed for the analyses of Pacific island biogeography have been used to explain insular exploration and colonization in the Mediterranean. This paper contends that one mathematical tool, the Target-Distance Ratio, is not adequately suited for the Mediterranean. Its archipelagos are unique due to the surrounding nearby coasts, and the Target-Distance Ratio does not sufficiently explain the human perception of the initial colonization. A cognitive approach is adopted to assess how potential colonizers perceived the water barriers. I examine maps made prior to sextant measurements and the Mercator Projection to understand how would be colonizers may have visualized and anticipated the voyage. The analysis suggests that mariners probably did not envision the dangers of sailing in terms of distances, implying Target-Distance Ratios are inadequate to explain the Neolithic colonization of the Mediterranean islands. Instead, this essay focuses on developments in stone tool technology that probably advanced sea-faring capabilities and in turn allowed early farmers to move to islands.