Selection for smaller brains in Holocene human evolution

Paper

Selection for smaller brains in Holocene human evolution

Published Feb 28, 2011 · J. Hawks

arXiv: Populations and Evolution

UNKNOWN SJR score

24

Citations

5

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Semantic Scholar

Abstract

Background: Human populations during the last 10,000 years have undergone rapid decreases in average brain size as measured by endocranial volume or as estimated from linear measurements of the cranium. A null hypothesis to explain the evolution of brain size is that reductions result from genetic correlation of brain size with body mass or stature. Results: The absolute change of endocranial volume in the study samples was significantly greater than would be predicted from observed changes in body mass or stature. Conclusions: The evolution of smaller brains in many recent human populations must have resulted from selection upon brain size itself or on other features more highly correlated with brain size than are gross body dimensions. This selection may have resulted from energetic or nutritional demands in Holocene populations, or to life history constraints on brain development.

Observational Study

Study Snapshot

Key takeawayThe evolution of smaller brains in recent human populations is likely due to selection on brain size or features more highly correlated with brain size, rather than gross body dimensions.

PopulationOlder adults (50-71 years)

Sample size24

MethodsObservational

OutcomesBody Mass Index projections

ResultsSocial networks mitigate obesity in older groups.

Selection for smaller brains in Holocene human evolution

References

Citations