Ep 1. Becoming Us

In the premiere episode of The Human Spark, titled "Becoming Us," host and anthropologist Alan Alda explores the question of what makes human beings unique from other animals. Throughout the episode, Alda speaks with experts in fields such as anthropology, biology, and psychology to gain a deeper understanding of the evolutionary processes that led to the development of human consciousness.

The episode begins with Alda visiting a research facility where scientists are studying the genomes of chimpanzees and humans. By comparing the DNA of the two species, researchers hope to gain insight into the genetic changes that contributed to the evolution of human traits such as bipedalism and increased brain size.

Alda then visits with a primatologist who studies the behavior of chimpanzees in the wild. By observing the social dynamics of these intelligent creatures, the scientist can draw comparisons between human society and those of our primate cousins.

Next, Alda explores the concept of language and communication. He speaks with researchers who study the way that language is processed in the brain and how humans are uniquely equipped for complex communication. Alda also meets with a linguist who studies ancient languages to gain insight into how language may have developed over time.

The episode then shifts focus to the development of artistic expression. Alda visits a cave in France where ancient humans left behind beautiful paintings and engravings. He speaks with an archaeologist who explains how these early forms of art may have been an expression of human creativity and imagination.

Finally, Alda explores the concept of empathy and emotional intelligence. He meets with a psychologist who studies how humans develop the ability to understand and empathize with others, and how this trait sets us apart from other animals.

Throughout the episode, Alda weaves together these disparate threads to create a cohesive narrative about the development of human consciousness. By exploring the ways in which humans are unique from other animals, he gains insight into what makes us fundamentally human. This thought-provoking and engaging exploration of the human experience sets the stage for the rest of the series, which delves deeper into the many facets of what it means to be human.