On Humans The Big Picture: From the Origin of Life to the Rise of Humans ~ Tim Coulson
Mar 25, 2025
Tim Coulson, Head of Biology at the University of Oxford and author of "A Universal History of Us," takes listeners on a compelling journey through the origins of life on Earth. He discusses how meteors influenced early life, the role of climate change in human evolution, and the profound impacts of the Great Oxidation Event. Coulson also explores the fascinating transition of life from sea to land and how our ancestors thrived alongside dinosaurs. His reflections highlight the remarkable journey of humanity and encourage curiosity about our existence.
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Malaria and Motivation
- Tim Coulson's journey to writing "A Universal History of Us" began with a near-fatal malaria experience in Africa.
- This inspired him to understand life's purpose through science, leading to years of reading and finally writing during the pandemic.
Life's Space Origins
- Life's building blocks, organic molecules, likely originated in space and arrived on Earth via meteorites.
- These molecules accumulated in volcanic hydrothermal vents or plains with energy sources, enabling life's emergence.
Luca's Legacy
- Luca, the last universal common ancestor, used the DNA code that all life shares today, highlighting its survival.
- Other DNA codes may have existed, but Luca's code outcompeted them through unknown advantages.
