Scientists now believe that humans may have descended from a single pair of ancestors, similar to the biblical story of Adam and Eve. Two major studies suggest that the male Y chromosomes and female mitochondrial DNA passed down to modern humans may have come from ancestors who lived around the same time. While one theory places the ancestral homeland in Mesopotamia, another theory suggests Africa's Kalahari Desert as the origin of all humans alive today.
Key Points
Evidence suggesting humans may have descended from a single pair of ancestors
Studies indicating male Y chromosomes and female mitochondrial DNA may have come from ancestors who lived around the same time
Theories placing human origins in Mesopotamia or Africa's Kalahari Desert
Pros
New insights into human ancestry
Potential alignment with biblical narratives
Cons
Competing theories and interpretations
Complexity of genetic studies and historical evidence