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Assuming the that the theory of evolution is true, does human intelligence work to slow down our evolution comparatively?

Asked by iamthemob (17196points) September 24th, 2010

The theory of evolution works based on (in simplest terms) the concepts of natural selection, isolation of populations, natural selection, and spontaneous mutation which is both beneficial and inheritable.

Assuming that this is exactly what causes the diversity of life on earth, the fact that we’re intelligent undercuts many of these factors. Intelligence allows human beings to adapt themselves through various environments through tool usage. And with modern medicine, we prevent the demise of individual examples that would not have survived naturally in the environment, all other things considered. And because we’ve become a “global phenomenon,” there is no real isolation of populations, and where there is it doesn’t seem it will be permanent.

Therefore, it seems that the one thing that might cause an evolutionary change in humans is spontaneous beneficial genetic mutations, such as those fictionalized in the X-Men. If this is the case, pre-mutation humans will be equipped to continue surviving on their own if they choose not to interbreed.

In this sense, do you think that intelligence is actually an evolutionary hindrance rather than a benefit?

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