The Evolution of Man

How our species has come to rule the earth has always puzzled people. The Descent of Man was published in the late 1800's by Charles Darwin (shown here). Evidence that showed the link between humans and apes was just emerging. A "question mark" has always been planted when considering the link between humans (hominids) and apes. Other vertebrate groups have more fossil documentation, thus it is not suprising that there has been and continues to be, controversy over the orgin of humans.

Views on The Evolution of Man

Much discussion between scientists who study fossil bones (Paleoanthropologists) and scientists who study the genetics of organisms (molecular biologists) has centred on a new theory relating to the beginnings and evolution of hominids. Molecular biologists claim that modern humans evolved from Eve's family, who lived in Africa over 100 000 years ago. They believe Eve's genes are carried by all living humans. Fossil evidence, the traditional view, is challenged by this new hypothesis. Paleoanthropologists, who believe humans evolved in different parts of the world at a gradual rate, dispute the theory that the molecular biologists propose.

A normal map illustrates the "out of Africa" view, the red arrows show how our ancestors, Homo erectus, went out of Africa about 1 million years ago. The blue arrows show how modern humans (homo sapiens) left Africa about 100 000 to 200 000 years ago.

The above map illustrates what paleoanthropologists believe. They hypothesize that populations of Homo erectus (orange arrows) went out of Africa and established different populations (yellow dots) that evolved independently towards Homo sapiens.

Hominids

The human family is defined as Hominids. Hominids are characterized by several features, such as their manner of movement (locomotion). We have an upright position (which is known as bipedal). A large reorganized brain is another feature, along with a diminished face and teeth. Use and construction of tools are notable characteristics of Hominids. The evolutionary design of man has always intrigued Anthropologists. Climatic changes may have been responsible for the development of the characteristics of Hominids. These climatic changes began 24 million years ago.

Steps of the Evolution of Man

Australopithecus Afarensis

Australopithecus Africanus

Australopithecus Robustus

Australopithecus Boisei

Homo Sapiens