The Aquatic Ape Hypothesis: The Most Credible Theory of Human Evolution

(Paperback, Main)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

Why do humans differ from other primates What do those differences tell us about human evolution Elaine Morgan gives a revolutionary hypothesis that explains our anatomic anomalies why we walk on two legs, why we are covered in fat, why we can control our rate of breathing. The answers point to one conclusion: millions of years ago our ancestors were trapped in a semi-aquatic environment. In presenting her case Elaine Morgan forces scientists to question accepted theories of human evolution, while expressing complex ideas for the general reader in a clear and accessible style. A documentary by Sir David Attenborough, The Waterside Ape, is based on Morgan's Aquatic Ape Hypothesis."

Reviews

"Attenborough asks whether this theory is any closer to achieving mainstream acceptance." --BBC Focus, on The Waterside Ape
"She is more scientific than Genesis, more up to date than Darwin, more fun than Ardrey, and she writes better than Desmond Morris." --Sunday Telegraph
"Sir David Attenborough takes to the radio to mull over a once ridiculed idea about human evolution . . . Attenborough shows how the theory has gained traction." --Times, on The Waterside Ape

Author Bio

Elaine Morgan was born in 1920 and after studying at Oxford University worked as a television writer. In 1972 she published The Descent of Woman suggesting that human evolution had an aquatic origin. This idea was attacked at first by scientists but the book became an international bestseller. In the decades since Morgan's aquatic ape hypothesis has gained widespread support.