Purchase Solution

Patterns of Evolution

Not what you're looking for?

Ask Custom Question

Humans shape their environment in ways that other organisms cannot. Are humans subject to the same pressures of natural selection as other organisms? Why or why not?

Provide an example of convergent and divergent evolution, adaptive radiation, and co-evolution. Then, respond to the following:

Choose one of the examples you provided and discuss the implications this example may have for future humans.

Purchase this Solution

Solution Summary

Is human evolution under natural selection anymore? The solution provides insights into this question including examples of major evolutionary traits and discusses how co-evolution will influence human beings in the future.

Solution Preview

Hello,

Here are the answers to your questions:

1. ARE HUMANS SUBJECT TO THE SAME PRESSURES OF NATURAL SELECTION AS OTHER ORGANISMS? WHY OR WHY NOT?

a. Humans are no longer subject to the same selective pressures as other organisms because modern technology allows us to avoid the less desirable consequences of natural selection. For instance, modern medicine allows us to live longer because it can repair and resuscitate individuals such as those involved in severe accidents or suffering from life threatening disease. Central heating, grocery stores, clean water (industrialized countries) suggest we are no longer at the mercy of a changing environment. Technology provides all of the requirements needed to maintain our ...

Purchase this Solution


Free BrainMass Quizzes
Human Anatomy- Reproductive System

Do you know your reproductive anatomy?

Birth 101

Do you know about childbirth? Find out with this quiz.

Bacterial Genetics

This quiz test your knowledge of the genetics of bacteria.

The Transfer of Energy in an Ecosystem

This quiz will assess your knowledge of how energy is transferred in an ecosystem and the different levels of trophic organization.

Basic Immunology Quiz

Intro to immuno quiz. Covers the basics of immunology and recognition of foreign substances by the body.