The Continuous Evolution of Humans

Essay by devious_youthCollege, UndergraduateA+, March 2006

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It has been clear to some researchers that humans are still evolving. Within the last 5,000 to 15,000 years, studies have shown that the genes in many regions of human genome have been shaped by natural selection. Many paleontologists are trying to show that evolution is still currently in the process of changing gene frequencies over time, which means that over generations, there will be changes in the gene pool, and humans experiences those changes as much as any other organisms. Some people live and some people die, and some evidently pass on more genes than others. Therefore, this evidently shows of change in the human gene pool over time. Tests have been taken in populations of Africa, East Asian countries and Europe showing that natural selection has acted upon these different groups of people for better adaptation. It explains a possible reason for their color of skin, appearance, and overall body structure.

Also, studies have shown that the evolution of the human brain is still undergoing beneficial change. Scientists make their claim based on the recent evolutionary history of the microcephalin gene that appears to regulate brain size. However, as the brain increases, it does not make a person more intelligent, but merely on the basis for survival.

Recent studies have shown that the characteristics of primates have increased in body mass in many of the primate lineages. This comes to show that natural selection has acted upon this group of animal on the basis of survival. Studies have shown that in most regions where primates reside in, now have larger fruit sizes. The selection would help these primates shift to a larger vegetarian diet. Also, scientists have noticed that through many of the primate lineages, there has been a reduction in claw size to nails. Why? Selection...