Based on scientific evidence, the age of humans on Earth depends on how "man" is defined.
Defining "Man": Anatomically Modern vs. Behaviorally Modern
The term "man" can be interpreted in two ways:
- Anatomically Modern Humans: This refers to Homo sapiens with physical features that are similar to humans today.
- Behaviorally Modern Humans: This refers to Homo sapiens who demonstrate complex cultural and technological behaviors.
Age of Anatomically Modern Humans
According to fossil and DNA evidence, anatomically modern *Homo sapiens* evolved approximately **300,000 years ago**.
Age of Behaviorally Modern Humans
Archaeological evidence, including tools, artifacts, and cave art, indicates that "behavioural modernity" emerged more recently, around **50,000 to 65,000 years ago**.
This means that while humans with our physical traits existed for hundreds of thousands of years, the complex technologies and cultures we often associate with "man" developed later.
Summary
| Definition of "Man" | Estimated Age on Earth | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Anatomically Modern Humans | Approximately 300,000 years | Fossil and DNA evidence |
| Behaviorally Modern Humans | Approximately 50,000-65,000 years | Archaeological evidence |
Therefore, if we consider "man" as anatomically modern *Homo sapiens*, then the answer is approximately 300,000 years. If we define "man" by complex behaviors and cultures, the answer is about 50,000 to 65,000 years.
