Growing Up Human

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In this exploration of childhood, Brenna Hassett delves into how our evolutionary history has shaped this universal experience. By examining our uniquely prolonged childhoods, the book highlights how humans have diverged from ancestral traits to remain 'forever young.' It begins with the investment animals make in their offspring and progresses through the stages of reproduction, from pair-bonding to hidden ovulation, illustrating how our species has strayed from typical primate behaviors. Hassett discusses the complexities of monogamy, modern parenting challenges, and how these factors contribute to our intricate mating systems, risky pregnancies, and challenging births. By comparing humans to our closest primate relatives and analyzing archaeological evidence, the book reveals insights into the evolution of childhood. It emphasizes that human investment in offspring extends beyond birth, examining aspects such as the chemical makeup of our milk and our historical inclination towards formal education. Through this analysis, Hassett uncovers the reasons behind our unique and intricate childhoods, shedding light on the evolutionary journey that has shaped who we are today.