Are Humans Still Evolving?

Have humans reached their optimal and final form, or are we still evolving? Can evolution be predicted? Does evolution always proceed over thousands or millions of years? Does evolution have a direction? Can a species de-evolve? In this course, we will seek answers to these questions and more by synthesizing evolutionary theory with the results of recent genomic and experiential studies. First, we will explore factors that promote or constrain evolution, and we will address common misconceptions about the pace, direction, and selectivity of evolution. Then, we will consider present-day evolution in humans by examining our evolutionary past and investigating evidence of recent and ongoing evolutionary change. Finally, we will contemplate our potential future evolutionary trajectories. In this course, you will develop a fundamental understanding of the process of evolution while also gaining familiarity with reading, discussing, and evaluating scientific data and publications. - Susana Wadgymar, assistant professor of Biology; Postdoctoral Associate, University of Georgia; Ph.D. University of Toronto; B.S. University of Texas at Austin.