Chapter 09 — Big & Curious
How does evolution actually work?
Tiny random mutations in DNA produce variation in every generation. The variants that survive and reproduce more pass their genes on; the rest don't. Over enough generations, populations change — sometimes into entirely new species. There is no plan and no goal; it's a filter, not a designer.
Follow-up questions
Did humans evolve from monkeys?
No — we share a common ancestor with modern apes from roughly 6–7 million years ago. We are cousins, not descendants.
Why do we still have an appendix?
Vestigial organs persist if they don't hurt reproduction. The appendix may also play a minor role in gut bacteria recovery after illness.
Is evolution still happening?
Constantly. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria, lactase persistence in adults, and changing beak shapes in finches are real-time examples.
Is evolution random?
The mutations are random. Selection is not — it favors what works in a given environment.
Are humans still evolving?
Yes — lactose tolerance, disease resistance, and altitude adaptations have all changed in the last few thousand years.
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