Has human biological evolution been hampered by progress? Are there still signs that this evolution continues today? The answers to these questions are not so simple, since humanity stopped the natural selection that concerned it.
Evolution enabled by genetic variants
Let us first remember that the human species has survived over time thanks to genetic variations. They indeed offer more chances of survivaland therefore reproduction. This involves particular characteristics that allow our ancestors to survive and adapt to very harsh living conditions or even to survive certain diseases.
In an article published on November 24, 2024, the IFLScience magazine mentioned a very telling example: the Bajau (or sea nomads), an ethnic group found in several countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines. . Over the centuries, these people have developed the ability to hold their breath for several minutes, which allows them to dive up to 70 meters deep to fish, without any equipment.
The examples are numerous and show that genetic variants allowed us to build humanity. However, several questions arise: do today's humans still need these genetic variants? Have advances in medicine and technology signaled the end of evolution?
We are evolving, but differently today
More than a decade ago, British naturalist and science writer David Attenborough spoke of the end of natural selection. It would have occurred when humanity was able to raise between 90 and 95% of its newborns. The one that allowed humanity to adapt and evolve no longer exists today. So, there may no longer be any point in evolving biologically. However, in reality, evolution continues, but differently.
Let us cite the example of the Netherlands which is subject to sexual selection during the last decades. Indeed, if Dutch men are among the tallest in the world (1.90 m) today, this was not at all the case a few centuries ago (1.65 m). Regarding disease resistance, let us cite the example of HIV (AIDS) in South Africa. In this country, the most affected in the world by this virus, the rates of genetic variants offer better protection. In fact, the mothers concerned would transmit this resistance to their children.
In conclusion, improving living conditions and reducing the pressure of our environments do not require us to evolve in the same way as our ancestors over the last millennia and centuries. However, humanity continues to evolve based on cultures, environmental changes and diseases.
