British scientists have discovered that the development of the human brain occurred gradually within each species of ancient people and not in sudden leaps.
Oku.Az it is reported with reference to Gazeta.ru.
The results of the study were published in the journal PNAS (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences).
The researchers compiled a large database and used modern analytical methods, which made it possible to fill in gaps in the paleontological record and create a more accurate picture of changes in brain size in ancient people. The analysis covered seven million years of human evolution.
According to scientists, the increase in the size of the human brain occurred gradually and was more like an improvement of “internal functions” within the species than revolutionary changes associated with the transition from one species to another. This result calls into question previous theories that claimed that brain development is related to large evolutionary leaps.
Additionally, research has shown that there is a correlation between body and brain size between species, but within a species this correlation is not as pronounced. This discovery highlights the complexity of evolutionary processes, where not only physical parameters but also more complex mechanisms play an important role.
