The Artificial Ape: How Technology Changed the Course of Human Evolution

By: Timothy Taylor

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Synopsis: While Darwin's theory explains our common descent, scientists have grappled with the reasons why human evolution defies the principles of natural selection and why, although we dominate the planet, we have become the weakest ape. In this fascinating narrative, leading archaeologist Timothy Taylor proposes that it was our early adoption of tools, objects, and, now, technology that changed us, demonstrating how: baby slings made out of animal fur freed up our arms up to use tools; clothes kept us warm, reducing our need for body hair; shelter protected us from the elements and led our bodies to become slighter and physically weaker. Drawing on the latest fossil evidence, Taylor shows how humans made choices that assumed greater control over their own evolution.