New theory may explain why we are the only humans on earth

We are so used to being unique that the title itself seems strange: "What do you mean, the only humans?" But as it is with the other animals on the planet, we are part of a species within a genus, the genus Homo. That's why you've probably heard of species such as Homo erectus or Homo neanderthalensis. They were, with us, part of a genus that initially contains seven species, just as cats, lions, and tigers are three different species, yet they are all felines.

What happens is that in many different genera there are several similar species, like the feline species mentioned above, walking the planet, but we are the exception to the rule. Of the entire Homo genre, only we Homo sapiens have survived, and the reason for that has always been quite mysterious, but now scientists are a little closer to understanding what brought us to this point alone.

Many scientists believed that our "advantage" over other hominids was in our ability to communicate; but as research evolved, the researchers found that Neanderthals weren't exactly that caveman figure who does little more than grunt. In fact, they also communicated very well, used tools, had religious rites, and lived in society. So what could have made only our species survive extinction?

What was the differential?

The new theory of the researchers points to the "leaving the comfort area". For them we prospered and survived because we were more adaptable to the environment around us. As our colonies grew, we looked for new places to develop, no matter how inhospitable, as we learned to live with different family groups from our own. This ability to adapt in situations of adversity would have been the determining factor for the species to become stronger and can withstand more aggressive situations.

Although a very promising theory, paleoanthropologist Shara Bailey points out that there is also no evidence that the other species were not as adaptable as the apiens, which shows that there is still a long way to go and many archaeological sites to investigate. .

This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to new theories about the unique survival of Homo sapiens, and many years of study will still be needed to prove or disprove these scientists' proposal. In any case, this new angle of study can be instrumental in discovering why our species survived, as well as what happened to all the others.

***

Do you know the Mega Curioso newsletter? Weekly, we produce exclusive content for lovers of the biggest curiosities and bizarres of this big world! Register your email and do not miss this way to keep in touch!