Horizon Season 2011 Episode 7 Are We Still Evolving?

In the season 2011, episode 7 of the highly acclaimed documentary series Horizon, viewers are invited to delve deep into the fascinating world of human evolution and contemplate whether or not humans are still evolving. Questions are raised about the direction in which evolution is heading and if we, as a species, are becoming more or less advanced.

The episode begins by exploring the concept of natural selection, the mechanism that drives evolution. It then moves on to discuss the ways in which humans have altered the environment around us and how that has affected the course of our evolution. For example, modern medicine and technology have allowed us to overcome many health and environmental challenges, which might have otherwise caused us to go extinct. As a result, some researchers believe that humans have stopped evolving altogether.

However, as the episode delves deeper into the topic, it becomes clear that this is not the case. In fact, there is compelling evidence to suggest that humans are still evolving, albeit in sometimes unexpected ways. One area in which significant change is occurring is in our diet - as humans have moved away from hunter-gatherer societies and towards agriculture and processed foods, our bodies have had to adapt to these changes. For instance, the ability to digest and metabolize lactose in milk is an adaptation that has emerged in some populations within just the last few thousand years.

Another area in which evolution is still happening is genetics. Advances in genetic research have revealed fascinating insights into the ways in which our genetic makeup is changing over time. For example, some populations are developing immunity to certain diseases, while others are becoming more susceptible. There are even suggestions that some genetic changes are linked to intelligence and cognitive abilities.

The episode also explores the idea that evolution may be accelerating due to human activities such as climate change, globalization, and the widespread use of technology. These factors are creating new environmental pressures and challenges to which our species must adapt. Some experts believe that these changes may be occurring more rapidly than we can even measure, meaning that we may be evolving in ways we don't yet fully understand.

Overall, the episode is a thought-provoking exploration of the intricate and constantly evolving nature of human biology and culture. It invites viewers to reframe their understanding of what evolution means and consider the idea that our species is not set in stone - that we are still changing and adapting in ways that we may not yet fully comprehend. With stunning visuals, expert interviews, and cutting-edge research, it is a captivating and enlightening journey into the extremes of science and research.