Single Idea 7462

[catalogued under 27. Natural Reality / G. Biology / 3. Evolution]

Full Idea

The basic mutation rate in DNA is 0.71 percent per million years. Working back from the present difference between human and chimpanzee DNA, we arrive at 6.6 million years ago for their divergence.

Gist of Idea

DNA mutation suggests humans and chimpanzees diverged 6.6 million years ago

Source

Peter Watson (Ideas [2005], Ch.01)

Book Reference

Watson,Peter: 'Ideas: from fire to Freud' [Phoenix 2006], p.30


A Reaction

This database is committed to evolution (a reminder that even databases have commitments), and so facts of this kind are included, even though they are not strictly philosophical. All complaints should be inwardly digested and forgotten.