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Are we still evolving?

Authors :
Douglas, Kate
Source :
New Scientist. 9/4/2004, Vol. 183 Issue 2463, p27-28. 2p. 1 Color Photograph.
Publication Year :
2004

Abstract

The article states that it is tempting to think that human beings have moved beyond clutches of evolution. But conclusion is wrong. Evolution is built on two cornerstones: heritable variation and selection. Plainly, humans vary. The source of that variation is genetic mutation, which still occurs at around the same rate today as it has throughout evolution. In the west one certainly seem to have wriggled free of natural selection. It is no longer just the fittest who survive and reproduce. Modern medicine allows people to overcome diseases and injuries that would once have killed them. Birth control and reproductive technology make reproduction a matter of choice, not adaptive quality. Likewise, the power of sexual selection has been blunted because the mass media has a strong influence on who one finds attractive.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
02624079
Volume :
183
Issue :
2463
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
New Scientist
Publication Type :
Periodical
Accession number :
14407619