Inevitable Humans: Simon Conway Morris's Evolutionary Paleontology

Abstract. Simon Conway Morris, noted Cambridge University paleontologist, argues that in evolutionary natural history humans (or beings rather like humans) are an inevitable outcome of the developing speciating processes over millennia; humans are “inherent” in the system. This claim, in marked cont...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Rolston, Holmes 1932- (Author)
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
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Published: Open Library of Humanities$s2024- 2005
In: Zygon
Year: 2005, Volume: 40, Issue: 1, Pages: 221-230
Further subjects:B possibility space
B self-organizing complexity
B Evolution
B nature and culture
B co-option
B Natural Theology
B human uniqueness
B Simon Conway Morris
B origin of humans
B Convergence
Online Access: Presumably Free Access
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Summary:Abstract. Simon Conway Morris, noted Cambridge University paleontologist, argues that in evolutionary natural history humans (or beings rather like humans) are an inevitable outcome of the developing speciating processes over millennia; humans are “inherent” in the system. This claim, in marked contrast to claims about contingency made by other prominent paleontologists, is based on numerous remarkable convergences—similar trends found repeatedly in evolutionary history. Conway Morris concludes approaching a natural theology. His argument is powerful and informed. But does it face adequately the surprising events in such history, particularly notable in unexpected co-options that redirect the course of life? The challenge to understand how humans are both on a continuum with other species and also utterly different remains a central puzzle in paleontology.
ISSN:1467-9744
Contains:Enthalten in: Zygon
Persistent identifiers:DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-9744.2005.00654.x