I wonder how much both the early 20th century and the current postmodern views on relations with the Neanderthals was influenced by the politics of the times. B

I wonder how much both the early 20th century and the current postmodern views on relations with the Neanderthals was influenced by the politics of the times. Back then people wanted justifications for colonialism and promoted social Darwinism; now we’re looking to promote multiculturalism and global trade. Both ways we’re projecting onto the prehistoric past what we want to see there.