Human Evolution in the 21st Century and Beyond

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What is the future of human evolution? Once considered the exclusive domain of science fiction, recent scientific advances now make it possible to combine knowledge of our past with recent trends to make meaningful predictions about our evolutionary future. Evolutionary biologist Scott Solomon draws on the explosion of discoveries in recent years to examine how modernization—including longer lifespans, changing diets, global travel, and widespread use of medicine and contraceptives— is affecting our ongoing evolution. Surprising insights, on topics ranging from the rise of online dating and Cesarean sections to the spread of diseases such as Ebola and Zika, suggest that we are entering a new phase in human evolutionary history—one that makes the future less predictable and more interesting than ever before.

Bio: Scott Solomon is the author of the new book, Future Humans: Inside the Science of Our Continuing Evolution (Yale University Press, 2016).  He earned his Ph.D. from UT-Austin in 2007 and is now a Professor in the Department of BioSciences at Rice University in Houston, where he lives with his wife and three children.

Science Under the Stars is a free public outreach lecture series in Austin, Texas. The talk will be held outdoors at Brackenridge Field Laboratory, 2907 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, Texas 78703.

Note (5/11/17): There will be a talk tonight, rain or shine! If necessary, we will move inside the field station.

Here’s the schedule for this month’s event:

• 7:15pm – Snacks, natural history displays, and activities designed for kids of all ages will be available!
• 7:30-7:50pm – Guided tours of BFL may be offered, dependent on weather and light conditions (wear sturdy shoes and bring water)!
• 8:00pm-8:45pm – Settle in to hear the talk!