PSYC 307 Chapter Notes - Chapter 11: Visual Acuity, Genetic Variability, Melanin
Document Summary
Humans in different parts of the world were subject to different selection of pressures over many generations; human genome diverging across different populations. Different experience in different culture that impact their biology. We share variants in common with people who share same ancestral. Genetic variability in humans is considerably less than in many other species, but different populations of humans do differ from each other in many of their genes. The most salient example of genetic variability: skin colour. Body"s ability to synthesize vitamin d, which is necessary for the intestines to absorb calcium and phosphorus from food for bone growth and repair. Those with less melanin in their skin had a survival advantage. It is an example of adaptive response. Selective role that culture is playing on the human genome: dietary practices, such as milk consumption. Problem of contaminated water supply; europeans drink beer and wine, asians drink tea and boil water.
