Aquatic Ape Theory
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The Aquatic Ape Theory was popularised by Elaine Morgan in the face of much antagonism from mainstream scientists. You can read more here. And see her talk at TED here. Essentially she argues that at some point in our evolution we adapted to being semi-aquatic; and describes several features common to humans, semi-aquatic mammals and aquatic mammals, but not primarily land based mammals.
The comments after the You Tube clip give you a real taste of the antagonism this hypothesis arouses!
And a more recent reference to the theory in The Guardian, 27 April 2013.
I shall go have a look at the vid. Usually after reading youtube comments I need a shower…
There’s a novel that talks about aquatic ape theory quite a bit – Trajectories by the late Julian Rathbone. Came out about 15 years ago….
Dwight – thanks for the book reference. Re: youtube – humanity eh?
I’ve bought 2 of Elaine’s books since seeing the TED talk you mentioned. I’m now half way through The Descent of Woman which includes lots of AA theory, and then will be starting on the unadulterated AA book. As a raging feminist I don’t know how I’ve managed to miss her up to now! Isn’t she wonderful?! A fitting icon for your blog name Mr and Mrs Ape :)