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Mutant Gene Responsible for Speech?
An anonymous submitter writes: "A new study published in Nature reports that humans developed speech and language 200,000 years ago as a result of gene mutation. Washington Post story with more background. The mutation in the FOXP2 gene allowed humans greater control over their mouth and throat muscles, and gave them the ability to produce new sounds. It was apparently such an advantageous mutation that it quickly swept through the human population (10,000 - 20,000 years) almost entirely wiping out earlier versions. This development seems to also match up closely with the time period humans began developing culture. Researchers next want to try altering the gene in mice to see what happens, although they suspect there are many other genes involved. So, how long until I can get a talking dog?"
It's not obvious to some people. I bought a "Science for Christian Students" book at the thrift store for laughs.
The book claims that evolution is bogus, and presents evidence that things do not evolve, only devolve. They argue that mutations never are beneficial, only detrimental to the survival of the animal.
As long as we have an ignorant mass of religious people that believes books like this, we will continue to need studies to prove the obvious.
I've had enough abrasive sigs. Kittens are cute and fuzzy.
So you're like, what, 15?
Someone PLEASE mod this guy down!
The Dopester
"Yes, I'm a Karma Whore, but I'm doing it to pay my way through school."
Look, I'm not a creationist or anything, but your logic is unbelievably retarded. You do realize that, don't you?
Any sufficiently well-organized community is indistinguishable from Government.