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Does Darwin's Theory of Evolution explain why the human brain is so big?
Wiki User
∙ 7y ago
Darwin's theory specifies descent with modification through natural selection. What that means essentially (and as an over simplification) is that DNA - which we now know to be the engine of change in species - is copied wrong, on occasion, leading to a modified gene. Sometimes those modifications have consequences for the animal. In the case of human brain size, perhaps some early hominid had a gene coding for the additional split of neurons during it's prenatal life (all animals, even ants and beetles, have the same basic brain chemistry. The main difference is that, during development, higher animals' brains are told to keep producing neurons, thus increasing in size to accommodate. Our brains produce the most neurons per overall surface area). So this hominid, and it's offspring, and maybe some relatives all have slightly better brains than their contemporaries allowing them greater powers of abstract thought, communication, and organization...MAYBE. They soon start out competing their neighbors for Natural Resources thereby increasing their numbers though better food, shelter, etc (again, this is all hypothetical and oversimplified). Soon their numbers are so great, they completely overwhelm the competing populations whose numbers crash. They are, unwittingly, moving toward becoming a new species, over thousands of generations, with slightly bigger brains. With the better food (mostly protein) comes the fuel to support the development of such large brains.
The same is true for all modifications from giraffe necks to whale spouts. They developed overtime through a series of accidents that worked in the animal's favor environmentally.
Wiki User
∙ 7y ago
Yes, Darwin's Theory of Evolution suggests that the larger human brain size can be attributed to the evolutionary advantage it provided in terms of cognitive abilities, problem-solving, and social interactions. Evolution favored individuals with larger brains as it provided a survival advantage in adapting to changing environments and gaining competitive advantage within social groups.
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What is the human evolution in human evolution theory?
The human evolution theory is the scientific study of how humans evolved from earlier species of primates. It explains how anatomical, genetic, and behavioral characteristics have changed over time, leading to the development of modern humans. Key milestones include bipedalism, tool use, brain expansion, and cultural evolution.
How did Mary leakeys discover change in the modern understanding of prehistoric humans?
Mary Leakey's discoveries, such as the Laetoli footprints and the skull of Proconsul africanus, provided critical evidence for the theory of human evolution. They showed that upright walking predated the development of a large brain, challenging previous assumptions. This helped shift the focus from a linear progression of human evolution to a more complex, branching family tree of human ancestors.
What are two trends in human evolution?
One trend in human evolution is the increase in brain size over time, reflecting a gradual development in cognitive abilities. Another trend is the bipedalism, or the ability to walk upright on two legs, which distinguishes humans from other primates.
Did homo erects have smaller brains than Australopithecus?
No, Homo erectus had larger brains than Australopithecus. Homo erectus had an average brain size of around 900 cubic centimeters, while Australopithecus had a brain size of around 400-500 cubic centimeters. This increase in brain size is thought to be one of the key factors in the evolution of Homo erectus.
Is neanderthal brain is larger than homo sapien brain?
On average, Neanderthal brains were slightly larger than those of Homo sapiens. However, brain size is not the only factor determining intelligence, as the structure and organization of the brain are also important. Some studies suggest that Homo sapiens had more advanced cognitive abilities due to their brain organization.
What theory was advanced to explain why researchers discovered that there were a number of centers that dealt with language in the cerebral hemisphere and not the right?
The theory of lateralization was developed to explain this phenomenon. The fields of brain study are always changing as scientists and psychologists learn more and more about how the brain functions.
What theory was advanced to explain why researchers that there were a number of centers that dealt with language in the left cerebral hemisphere and not the right?
The theory of lateralization was developed to explain this phenomenon. The fields of brain study are always changing as scientists and psychologists learn more and more about how the brain functions.
What is the human evolution in human evolution theory?
The human evolution theory is the scientific study of how humans evolved from earlier species of primates. It explains how anatomical, genetic, and behavioral characteristics have changed over time, leading to the development of modern humans. Key milestones include bipedalism, tool use, brain expansion, and cultural evolution.
What has the author Rossend Pujadas written?
Rossend Pujadas has written: 'The brain, mastermind of evolution?' -- subject(s): Brain, Evolution
How would you explain the Cannon-Bard theory of emotion?
The brain's processing of the emotional stimulus precedes both the physiological arousal and the simultaneously occurring emotion.
What theory was advanced to explain why researchers discovered that there were a number of centers that dealt with language in the left cerebral hemisphere and not the right?
The theory advanced to explain the discovery of language centers primarily in the left hemisphere is known as the "left-hemisphere specialization" or "left-lateralization" theory. This theory posits that the left hemisphere is specialized for language processing in most individuals due to its superior analytical and sequential processing abilities, as well as its connections to the motor regions that control speech production.
When was Maggot Brain Theory created?
Maggot Brain Theory was created on 1994-05-24.
How do todays biologists reconcile their personal faith in an organized religion with their belief in evolution?
I know Christian biology teachers who dismiss the theory of evolution all together. But some manage to use only their "logical" part of their brain when it comes to evolution and think that the seven days mentioned in the Bible were simply figurative when He "evolutioned" everything into being.
What has the author Gerhardt von Bonin written?
Gerhardt von Bonin has written: 'The evolution of the human brain' -- subject(s): Accessible book, Brain, Evolution, Human evolution, Man, Origin, Hersenen, Evolutie, Somatologia Humana 'Essay on the cerebral cortex' -- subject(s): Brain 'The neocortex of Macaca mulatta' -- subject(s): Brain, Monkeys
What is the comparison of physiological psychology evolutionary psychology and cognitive psychology?
Physiological psychology includes any ideas that relate biology and neurosciences to behavior and emotions. Evolutionary psychology uses the theory of evolution to help explain behavior in humans and other animals. Cognitive psychology looks at the mind rather than the brain and examines healthy vs unhealthy thinking.
How are Apes so smart?
Evolution increased brain size.
What are the ratings and certificates for The Big Brain Theory - 2013?
The Big Brain Theory - 2013 is rated/received certificates of: USA:TV-PG
