When Darwin proposed that humans evolved from a common ancestor with the great apes, he lacked fossil evidence to support his idea. One hundred and fifty years later, the evidence for human evolution is plentiful and growing, including detailed molecular genetics data, an impressive fossil record, and artifacts of early human culture like stone tools.

In four presentations, leading scientists John Shea of Stony Brook University, Sarah Tishkoff of the University of Pennsylvania, and Tim White of the University of California, Berkeley, guide us on a global exploration spanning millions of years to illuminate the rise of modern humans.

This DVD set includes detailed chapter search by scientific topic; direct access to animations; English and Spanish subtitles; interviews with the speakers; special features on recent human evolution, the genetics of lactase persistence, and the nature of science; and discussions on science journalism and the genetics of bitter taste perception.

Presented at HHMI's 2011 Holiday Lectures on Science. Two discs, lecture time approx. 240 min.