Has the Combination of Genetic and Fossil Evidence Solved the Riddle of Modern Human Origins?
Author(s)
Pearson, Osbjorn M.
Abstract
Debate over the origin of modern humans continues without a clear end in sight. Currently, the genetic and fossil evidence is still used to support two different interpretations of the origin of modern humans. Some researchers claim that the genetic evidence is compatible with either an Out-of-Africa or a Multiregional model, while other scientists argue that the evidence supports only a Multiregional model of evolution. I argue that the fossil record and archeological evidence constrain interpretation of the genetic evidence and imply that very little, if any, admixture with Eurasian archaic hominids such as the Neanderthals occurred during the spread of modern humans out of Africa.
