Simulating The Strange Way Life (Likely) Evolved

This Veritasium video takes you on a whirlwind tour from smelly poop to self-replicating molecules, using computer simulations to show how random gene mutations, natural selection, kin selection, and the “selfish gene” concept could have driven life’s origin. Along the way, Derek Muller breaks down the jump from simple chemicals to living cells and explains what really gets passed on through generations.

Packed with insights from Dr. Jack Szostak, Dr. John Sutherland, and other leading biologists, the episode also features sponsor shout-outs (Hostinger, Snatoms kits), timestamped deep dives, penguin footage, and a hefty thanks to the Patreon supporters, researchers, animators, and production crew who made it all happen.

Watch on YouTube