Paleolithic Continuity Theory

The Paleolithic Continuity Theory (PCT) suggests that the Indo-European languages originated in Europe and have existed there since the Paleolithic.

It is based on archaeogenetical studies of Brian Sykes indicating that some 80% the genetic stock of Europeans goes back to the Paleolithic, as well as on archaeological data indicating European cultural continuity.

Its main proponents are the italian scholars Mario Alinei and Gabriele Costa.

In historical linguistics it is commonly deemed unfeasible to make any assertion about particular languages of such antiquity. PCT must therefore be regarded as controversial (c. f. Proto-World language).

See also: Indo-European, Proto-Indo-European, Urheimat.