Recent studies of the FOXP2 gene, associated with a language production, imply that modern human speech abilities
A) are entirely due to a single genetic mutation.
B) result from the FOXP2 gene's influence on our comprehension of speech.
C) were present very early, before humans diverged from other great ape species.
D) can be completely absent in some families with a mutation on this gene.
E) may have evolved at a time when Homo sapiens were in competition with Neanderthals.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Recent studies suggest that the FOXP2 gene, which is linked to speech and language, may have played a role in the evolution of these abilities during a period when Homo sapiens and Neanderthals coexisted, indicating a possible competitive advantage.

Recent Studies of the FOXP2 Gene, Associated with a Language