The Surprising Truth About 4 Billion Years of Evolution

Derek Muller (aka Veritasium) takes us on a whirlwind tour from why poop smells bad to the origin of life, gene mutations and how we simulate evolution in computers. Along the way we see natural selection in action, learn what traits really get passed down, and discover how kin selection and “the selfish gene” shape everything from penguin parenting to human behavior.

Backed by top experts like Jack Szostak and Joanna Masel, plus slick animations and real-world examples, this video makes 4 billion years of evolution feel like an epic (and occasionally stinky) adventure—complete with the mind-blowing revelation that it’s all a simulation…sort of.

Watch on YouTube