Unpacking Genetic Similarities: Humans and Chimps

This chapter critically examines the widely cited statistic that humans share 98.8% of their genetic material with chimpanzees, revealing that this claim may be an oversimplification. Recent studies indicate that the actual genetic difference is closer to 14% to 15%, with notable divergences evident in unsequenced regions of the genome. The discussion highlights how such misconceptions persist in public understanding despite evolving scientific evidence.