A new hypothesis proposed by a group of researchers suggests that human ancestors may have used fire to create "safe spaces" that protected them from predators and provided them with a number of other advantages. The hypothesis, published in the journal Quaternary International, is based on evidence from archaeological sites in South Africa that show evidence of early human use of fire, as well as on the behavior of modern primates.

The researchers argue that early hominins, such as Homo erectus, may have used fire to create clearings in dense vegetation, which would have made them less vulnerable to predators. These clearings would also have provided early humans with a number of other advantages, such as increased visibility, improved access to resources, and a place to socialize and cook food.

The hypothesis is supported by evidence from archaeological sites in South Africa, such as the Wonderwerk Cave, which contains evidence of human use of fire dating back more than 1 million years. The cave contains hearths, ash deposits, and burnt bones, suggesting that early humans used fire for cooking, warmth, and protection.

The researchers also draw on the behavior of modern primates, such as chimpanzees and bonobos, which are known to use fire to clear vegetation and create safe spaces. Chimpanzees, for example, have been observed using fire to clear areas for sleeping and feeding, and to protect themselves from predators.

The hypothesis that early hominins used fire to create safe spaces is still being tested, but it provides a new and interesting perspective on the role of fire in human evolution. If the hypothesis is correct, it would suggest that fire was an important tool that helped early humans to survive and thrive in a challenging environment.