Humans, or Homo sapiens, are the only extant members of the subtribe Hominina, a branch of the family Hominidae, which includes great apes. Here are some key points about humans:
Evolutionary History
- The earliest ancestors of modern humans diverged from the chimpanzee lineage about 5 to 7 million years ago.
- Over time, several hominid species evolved, with Homo erectus being one of the first to leave Africa, around 1.9 million years ago.
- Modern humans, Homo sapiens, evolved in Africa approximately 300,000 years ago, with evidence of migration out of Africa around 60,000 years ago.
Physical Characteristics
- Humans are bipedal, standing erect with an S-shaped spine, which supports the weight of the head and upper body.
- They have opposable thumbs, which aid in grasping and tool use.
- The brain size averages around 1350 cm³, much larger than that of their closest living relatives, the chimpanzees.
Social and Cultural Development
- Humans are highly social animals, living in complex social structures ranging from small family groups to large societies.
- Language development has been key to human cultural evolution, enabling the transmission of knowledge, beliefs, and social norms.
- Humans have developed agriculture, which led to a population boom and the establishment of permanent settlements.
Technological and Scientific Progress
- From the invention of the wheel to the development of space travel, humans have continuously advanced technologically.
- The Scientific Revolution marked a significant shift in human understanding of the natural world, leading to modern science and technology.
Current Status
- As of 2023, the global population of humans is over 8 billion.
- Humans face numerous challenges including climate change, resource depletion, and global health issues.
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