Ep 5. Becoming Human Part 2

In NOVA season 37 episode 5, titled "Becoming Human Part 2," viewers are taken on a scientific journey to understand the evolution of humans. Building on the previous episode, this installment dives deeper into the genetic, anatomical, and behavioral factors that have shaped the human species over millions of years.

The episode starts with a visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, where viewers get to feast their eyes on the fascinating fossils and artifacts that tell the story of human evolution. From the earliest hominins to the modern Homo Sapiens, the exhibit showcases some of the most significant milestones in the human journey.

The scene then shifts to Africa, where scientists are delving into the mysteries of our ancestors. We watch as a team of paleoanthropologists unearths new fossils that shed light on the early evolution of primates. Then, we see how some of our closest relatives, the chimpanzees, exhibit remarkable social and cognitive abilities that could reveal critical clues about our own evolution.

Next, we travel to Georgia, where researchers are studying some of the earliest hominins that migrated out of Africa. We learn how their genetic makeup has influenced our own, and how their anatomical features have shaped the human body. From the evolution of bipedalism to the development of our unique brain structure, these early hominins played a significant role in making us who we are today.

As the episode progresses, we meet a diverse array of scientists who are investigating different aspects of human evolution. We hear from behavioral ecologists who study the social behaviors of primates, and how those behaviors may have evolved in our own species. We also learn about the advances in genetic analysis that have allowed scientists to trace the ancient migrations and interbreeding events that shaped the genetic diversity of humans.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning animations and CGI that bring the evolution of humans to life. From the mysterious last common ancestor of humans and chimpanzees to the intricate workings of our DNA, these visualizations help us understand the complexity and wonder of our evolutionary history.

The episode concludes with a reflection on the significance of human evolution. We hear from scientists and philosophers who wrestle with the question of what it means to be human. As we watch the final scenes, we are left with a profound sense of awe at the incredible journey that has led to our species' existence. We are reminded that our evolution is an ongoing story, with many mysteries still waiting to be uncovered.