In 2002, Nature published the findings of a group of scientists on the genetic superiority of modern humans over their predecessors.

It was believed that the gene FOXP2 predetermined the ability to speak with the ancient inhabitants of Africa about 100 thousand years ago. However, at that time, researchers were able to analyze only the genome of 20 volunteers. Most of them were Caucasians.

In 2018 another team of researchers decided to test this theory using modern technologies of genetic analysis and a broader database including also indicators of older species.

The use of several statistical methods disproved the assumption of speech development as a result of the appearance of the FOXP2 gene. As it turned out, this gene was also found in some predecessors, which deprives him of the status of a unique feature of modern people.

Now the mechanisms of origin of speech again became a mystery for anthropologists. However, the authors of the article see this as a positive side. In their opinion, the application of more extensive methods of genetic analysis will allow scientists in new works to dispel many existing myths about the development of mankind.

And at the same time it should throw light on some evolutionary mechanisms.

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