Evolution

Discussion in 'Off-Topic Discussion' started by Fat Controller, Mar 4, 2014.

  1. Fat Controller

    Fat Controller 'Cuddly' Scottish Admin! Staff Member

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    Partly spurred by the 'pin & thrum' thread, I got to wondering (again) about evolution; now, as far as can be reasonably determined, we as a species have evolved over millions of years into the beings we are now.

    We have become upright and lost quite a bit of body hair - and there is bound to be a whole lot more that I can't think of right now.

    Mother nature, without doubt, is incredible and for the most part evolution sees species (be they plant, animal or human) improving or at least eliminating some of their weaknesses.

    But there are a few evolutionary things that confuse me. For example, sharks have teeth that continually self-replace as they fall out - - why has this evolution not happened for other species?

    Also, what evolutionary benefit is there in humans getting (generally) taller? Look at any ye olde building, and you will find low beams and low door frames that the vast majority have to duck under nowadays. And what about things like the size of our feet? I surely can't be alone in noticing that peoples feet are generally getting bigger on average - - particularly so for women? What is that all about?

    And why has evolution not sorted out some of the weirder things that happen to us, particularly as we age such as ear, eyebrow and nose hair? Most of the other hair was taken care of after all?

    I'm sure there will be many more?
     
  2. clueless1

    clueless1 member... yep, that's what I am:)

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    Everything is about trade-offs. Some animals grow huge, so they have fewer predators and can store more food and water, but then they can't move as fast and are more susceptible to injury if they fall. Some animals grow small, enabling them to move with more agility etc.

    Women seem to prefer taller blokes. I have no idea why.

    Mother nature has a sense of humour.
     
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    • Phil A

      Phil A Guest

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      I think the tallness is down to better nutrition
       
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      • Phil A

        Phil A Guest

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      • Jack McHammocklashing

        Jack McHammocklashing Sludgemariner

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        Nah, If it was down to Nut Rition, then all the vegans with their Sunday NutRoasts would be huge

        Jack McH
         
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        • clueless1

          clueless1 member... yep, that's what I am:)

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          I don't. If it was nutrition alone, lads wouldn't invariably end up as big as (or bigger than) their dads. Think about my generations vs my dad's generation. I must admit I ate a lot more junk food while I was growing up than my dad did when he was growing up, yet I'm as big as him.
           
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