Origins of Us

Origins of Us (2011)

EndedDocumentary showNature

Science series telling the story of human evolution through changes in human anatomy.

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Scheduleevery Monday at 21:00 (60 min)

Last Episode

Brains
Season 1Episode 360 min

Brains

Dr Alice Roberts explores how our species, Homo sapiens, developed its large brain and asks why humans are the only ape of its kind left on the planet today.

The evolution of the human mind is one of the greatest mysteries. It is the basis of religion, philosophy and science. We are special because of our extraordinary brain, and to understand why we think and act the way we do, we need to look at where and why our brains evolved.

The Rift Valley in Kenya is thought to be the crucible of human evolution, and here Alice examines the fossils in our family tree which reveal our brains have more than quadrupled in size since our ancestors split from chimpanzees. Research investigating sediments and rocks laid down during the period of greatest brain growth suggests a fluctuating environment may have played a part. Drawing on research on social politics in chimpanzees, the cognitive development of children and the tools that have been found littered across the Rift Valley, Alice explores how and why our ancestors brains became so big.

Successive species of increasingly large-brained humans migrated around the world - from Homo erectus to heidelbergensis, the Neanderthals to us. It has always been assumed the reason that Homo sapiens succeeded where others failed is to do with our large brains. Comparing skulls it's clear Neanderthals had just as big a brain as us, so why is there only us left? Alice goes to meet Svante Paabo, who is decoding the Neanderthal and human genome, and Clive Finlayson, who is unearthing the Neanderthals' final settlement, to try to find out.

Oct 31, 2011

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S01E03BrainsOct 31, 2011
S01E02GutsOct 24, 2011
S01E01BonesOct 17, 2011
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did 'Origins of Us' premiere?

'Origins of Us' premiered on September 25, 2011.

What is the genre of 'Origins of Us'?

'Origins of Us' is a documentary series.

Who is the host of 'Origins of Us'?

'Origins of Us' is hosted by Dr. Alice Roberts.

What is the main focus of 'Origins of Us'?

'Origins of Us' explores the evolution of humans and the origins of human behavior.

How many episodes are there in 'Origins of Us'?

'Origins of Us' consists of three episodes.

Where was 'Origins of Us' filmed?

The series 'Origins of Us' was filmed in various locations, including Africa and the United Kingdom.

What is the educational background of Dr. Alice Roberts, the host of 'Origins of Us'?

Dr. Alice Roberts is an anatomist, osteoarchaeologist, anthropologist, television presenter, and author.

What are some of the topics covered in 'Origins of Us'?

'Origins of Us' delves into topics such as the development of bipedalism, tool use, and social behavior in early humans.

Who produced 'Origins of Us'?

'Origins of Us' was produced by the BBC.

What was the critical reception of 'Origins of Us'?

'Origins of Us' was well-received by audiences and critics for its engaging exploration of human evolution.

What was the inspiration behind creating 'Origins of Us'?

The series 'Origins of Us' was inspired by the desire to understand the evolutionary journey of mankind.

How did 'Origins of Us' contribute to the field of anthropology?

'Origins of Us' contributed to the field of anthropology by presenting complex scientific concepts in a compelling and accessible manner.

What is the significance of the title 'Origins of Us'?

The title 'Origins of Us' reflects the show's focus on exploring the fundamental origins of the human species.

How did 'Origins of Us' use scientific evidence to support its narrative?

'Origins of Us' utilized archaeological findings, DNA analysis, and expert interviews to substantiate its exploration of human evolution.

What impact did 'Origins of Us' have on viewers?

'Origins of Us' left a lasting impact on viewers by providing them with a deeper understanding of their evolutionary history and the traits that make humans unique.

Cast

Alice Roberts

Alice Roberts

plays herself
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Characters

Presenter

Presenter

played by Alice Roberts
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