# The evolution of anticipatory cognition as a precursor to symbollic communication **Abstract:** This article proposes an ecologically based answer to why humans are the only animals who have developed a symbolic communication system. The first part of the argument claims that the Oldowan culture generated selective forces that lead to the evolution of anticipatory cognition, that is, the ability to mentally represent future needs and events. We argue that anticipatory cognition opened up for new forms of cooperation about future goals that were beneficial for hominid societies. Symbolic communication then emerged as the most efficient way of solving problems concerning cooperation about future non-existent goals. **Authors:** [[Peter Gärdenfors and Mathias Osvath]]