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.