Anthropogenesis is one of the most intriguing branches of biology. Here we examine how the species Homo sapiens emerged from the animal kingdom, and what biological and social mechanisms underlie this process.
The section covers three key topics. First, we will examine the general picture of human evolution. Then we will analyze in detail the evidence of our animal nature—from vestigial structures and atavisms to biochemical and embryological similarities. Finally, we will clearly define the taxonomic position of humans on the animal evolutionary tree.
In tests and exams, instructors rarely ask you to simply memorize a list of taxa. Most often, you are required to justify the classification of humans among primates, mammals, or chordates, based on specific anatomical features. Pay special attention to the morphological differences between humans and higher apes—this is a classic question where students frequently lose points.