The Most Controversial Idea in Biology

Veritasium dives into the heart of evolution—in just 25 minutes you’ll explore everything from why poop stinks to the origins of life, gene mutation, and how natural selection really works. Along the way you’ll see a hands-on simulation of evolution, learn what traits we actually pass on, and discover why kin selection and Richard Dawkins’ “Selfish Gene” idea shook up biology.

Backed by experts like Jack Szostak, John Sutherland, Joanna Masel and Gerald Joyce, this fast-paced video blends real-world examples (even emperor penguin chicks!) with clear animations to show that life—and evolution—are all about replicating genes in sometimes surprising ways.

Watch on YouTube