On Humans The Origins of Humankind: Where Do We Really Come From?
Jan 10, 2026
Join renowned experts as they unravel the mysteries of human origins. Tim Coulson discusses how the extinction of dinosaurs paved the way for primates. Chris Stringer explains how dietary changes fueled brain growth. Dean Falk reveals how bipedalism influenced the development of music and language. Johannes Krause shares fascinating insights on Denisovans and the coexistence of multiple human species. Dive into the evolution of Homo sapiens and the challenges of agriculture, shaping our journey through time.
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Primate Rise After Dinosaur Extinction
- The end-Cretaceous extinction opened ecological space for mammals to radiate and become proto-primates in trees.
- Primate evolution favored slow life histories tied to fruit diets and reduced predation in arboreal niches.
Fruit Diets Shaped Slow Primate Life Histories
- Eating fruit and living in trees reduced predation pressure and enabled longer lifespans and delayed reproduction in primates.
- Coming down to the ground later exposed ancestors to predators, driving different evolutionary solutions like larger brains.
Climate Shift, Predation, And Brain Growth
- Climate-driven habitat change (African drying) forced ancestors from trees to the ground and increased predation risks.
- Instead of evolving stronger bodies, hominins expanded brain size to cope with terrestrial dangers and challenges.