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?
To determine if humans are subject to the same pressures of natural selection as other organisms, we need to first understand what natural selection is. Natural selection is the process by which certain traits become more or less common in a population over time, depending on whether those traits enhance reproductive success.
Humans, like all other organisms, are subject to the forces of natural selection. However, there are a few unique factors that affect the application of natural selection to humans in comparison to other organisms:
1. Cultural and Technological Evolution: Humans have the ability to create and transmit knowledge culturally. Through language, education, and technology, humans can pass down information from one generation to another, allowing for rapid adaptation and reduced reliance on genetic evolution. This cultural and technological evolution provides an additional layer that influences human traits and behaviors, alongside genetic evolution.
2. Altered Selective Pressures: Humans have altered the environment in significant ways. With the advances in medicine, technology, and agriculture, humans have created environments that may shield individuals from some traditional selective pressures. For example, medicine can overcome life-threatening genetic conditions or diseases, reducing the impact of natural selection on these traits.
3. Complex Societies: Humans live in complex societies that can influence reproductive success and mate selection differently than in other organisms. Social factors such as economic status, cultural norms, and personal preferences can often override purely biological considerations in human mate choice and reproductive success.
Despite these unique factors, humans are still subject to natural selection, although the specific selective pressures may differ from those of other organisms. Genetic variations in humans can still influence traits like disease resistance, physical and cognitive abilities, fertility, and various adaptations to the environment.
In conclusion, while humans might experience different selective pressures compared to other organisms, they are still subject to the forces of natural selection. Cultural and technological evolution, altered selective pressures, and complex societies have reshaped the application of natural selection in humans, but genetic variations can still shape the traits that affect our survival and reproductive success.
Check these sites.
http://www.news.cornell.edu/stories/Oct05/Bustamante.kr.html
http://scienceweek.com/2004/sa041029-4.htm