More Evolved?

The scientific journal "Nature" reported this week that,"The Y chromosome which makes a man male is evolving far faster than the rest of the human genetic code. A new study shows Y chromosomes of humans and chimps are about 30% different while the remainder of our genetic codes differ by a mere 2%."

As a card-carrying human male and long-time chimp observer, I am not terribly surprised. Male humans will occasionally (30% of the time?) re-place the toilet seat lid after use. Male chimps never do. The volume of spilled beer, vomit, and miscellaneous articles of clothing remaining on the floor after a human fraternity party is at least 30% less than the same stuff after a chimp blow-out even accounting for the banana peels. It's estimated that as much as 30% of all human males asked for directions at least once in their lives (though they'll never admit to it). Male chimps would rather drive from Chicago to L.A. by way of Saskatchewan than ask that nice lady how to get to Route 66.

Obviously, this study was completed before the football playoffs. Only human males pay $200 to sit, face-painted and bare-chested ("Gotta support the team!") in sub-freezing temperatures while our simian cousins watch the game in comfort at home. Who is 30% more evolved now, Mister Smarty Pants Human?"