Homo sapiens sapiens is the subspecies of Homo sapiens that includes all modern humans. The paleoanthropological term anatomically modern humans (AMH) refers to early individuals of Homo sapiens with an appearance consistent with the range of phenotypes [morphology, development, behavior etc.] in modern humans.

	HOMO SAPIENS SAPIENS

HOMO SAPIENS SAPIENS



Genus:		Homo

Species:		Homo sapiens sapiens

Other Names:		Omo

Time Period:		50,000 years ago to Present

Characteristics:		More Gracile, Technological

Fossil Evidence:		Worldwide

Website Links:		Journey of Mankind

HOMO SAPIENS SAPIENS

Homo sapiens sapiens evolved from archaic Homo sapiens by the beginning of the Upper Palaeolithic period 50,000 years BP - full behavioural modernity had developed.

The difference between Homo sapiens sapiens and their immediate ancestors Homo sapiens can be described by a number of anatomical features. Homo sapiens had robust skeletons, from a more physical life, rather than a reliance on technology. Homo sapiens sapiens have less visible brow ridges, more vertical foreheads and more prominent chins.

Anatomical comparison of the skulls of Homo sapiens sapiens
(modern humans) and Homo neanderthalensis (right)

Did anatomically modern humans behave similarly to their immediate ancestors? Modern human behaviors characteristic of recent humans include fully modern language, the capacity for abstract thought and the use of symbolism to express cultural creativity. Was there a quantum leap 200,000 years ago, or had there been a gradual progression throughout the evolutionary tree? When did we become modern?

Some argue that modern human behaviors [after 50,000 years ago based on the sudden abundance of human artifacts and art] occurred only once humans had achieved anatomical modernity [200,000 years ago]. Others argue that the two were achieved simultaneously. In other words, anatomical modernity [such as a lightly built skeleton] could occur only through increased human cooperation and the increased use of technology [modern behavior].

???????? Homo sapiens sapiens exist today.....discuss........the migration out of Africa, occurring between 90,000 and 75,000 years ago. Modern humans subsequently spread globally, replacing earlier hominins, either through competition or hybridization...........Journey of Mankind ?????????