“I read the news today, oh boy ...” (Post-Thanksgiving Edition)

A scientist argues that our early hunter-gatherer ancestors may have been smarter than modern day humans. Is your average ancient Athenian even smarter than your typical computer scientist? Find out (or be even more confused, take your pick) by listening to this august panel from Pajamas Media.

Meanwhile, elsewhere on planet Earth:

• First, the bad news. Guess what has passed Justin Bieber's "Baby" as the most watched video of all time. (Billboard)

• A postcard has just arrived in Elmira, New York, which is not remarkable in itself, except that it was sent in 1943. (Elmira Star-Gazette via AP)

• Speaking of messages, at least that one could be read. In the UK, the remains of a carrier pigeon dating to World War II have been found, with a message that may never be deciphered. See for yourself. (ABC News)

• Meanwhile, in the world of somewhat more advanced technology, the world's oldest original working digital computer, about the size of an SUV, finally gets a reboot. (BoingBoing.net)

• Finally, and while the leaves are still falling, don't try this at home. (The Sideshow)

And that's all the news that fits. As the week goes on, stay tuned, and stay in touch.