Ep 9. Are We Still Evolving?

In Horizon season 1 episode 9, "Are We Still Evolving?", scientists explore the idea that humans may still be evolving in ways we don't necessarily notice. Host and geneticist, Dr. Adam Rutherford, interviews researchers across various fields, from biologists to anthropologists, as they delve deeper into the question of whether or not humans are still evolving.

The episode begins by exploring the common perception that humans have evolved to their peak, and that further progress is being made through artificial means like technology instead of natural selection. However, scientists that Dr. Rutherford interviews argue that this perception is a misnomer; the theory of evolution is constantly at work, and humans are changing as a result of it.

For instance, Dr. Rutherford talks with a researcher who's observed changes in how certain populations digest lactose. In Europe, some people are able to continue digesting milk products after infancy, thanks to a genetic mutation that only appeared in the last few thousand years. Dr. Rutherford explores whether or not you could say that this genetic advantage would led to these individuals having a leg-up on others who don't benefit from the mutation. He also asks, are there other areas that genetic mutations could have an impact on as well?

Another concept explored is how humans have evolved to be taller and larger in general. For example, anthropologist Prof. John Hawks explains that the average height of individuals living 2,000 years ago in Europe was around 5'6, while today it is much closer to 6'0. As the science of genetics advances, some researchers believe that we might discover more and more traits that humans' genetic code is impacting, from things like body shape to IQ.

But the episode doesn't just focus on physical traits. Social scientist Dr. Rebecca Sear argues that our culture is evolving in certain ways, too. She believes that humans are gravitating towards lifestyles that are increasingly inter-connected and reliant on a network of support. The emergence of the "sharing economy" is one such example of cultural evolution, where people are increasingly sharing goods and services instead of relying solely on traditional market practices. Dr. Rutherford ponders how humans are changing in non-genetic ways.

One criticism of the episode could be that while it does offer interesting insights, the discussion doesn't always delve deep enough or provide a more balanced look at certain topics. For instance, while the episode spends time discussing height as a genetic trait that has evolved, it doesn't dig into the experiences that some people have when they don't measure up to societal expectations of how tall or large someone "should" be.

Overall, "Are We Still Evolving?" is a thought-provoking episode that encourages viewers to consider both the subtle and more obvious ways in which humans are evolving. Dr. Rutherford is an engaging host who keeps the conversation moving along as he speaks with experts who work in different academic disciplines. Whether you're interested in anthropology, biology, or genetics, this episode will provide you with plenty to think about when it comes to humans' place in the natural world.