Will Gorillas and Chimpanzees Evolve to Match Human Intelligence?

Evolutionary biology suggests that it's possible for gorillas and chimpanzees to become as intelligent as humans over time. However, the likelihood of this occurring is extremely low, given the complexity of the genetic mutations required. Despite these odds, scientific advancements and observations of existing chimpanzees and gorillas offer insights into their current intelligence levels and potential for future evolution.

Chances of Evolutionary Change

For gorillas and chimpanzees to evolve to match human intelligence, they would need to undergo significant genetic mutations that alter their jaw muscles and cranial structure, similar to the MYH16 gene mutation that occurred in the pre-human lineage. Such a mutation is a 1-in-many-billions chance, occurring once in tens of millions of years. This makes the prospect of these primates evolving to match human intelligence incredibly remote.

Current Examples of Intelligence in Primates

There are several examples of gorillas and chimpanzees displaying intelligent behavior. Koko, a well-known gorilla, and her mate Michael were both skilled communicators using American Sign Language (ASL). Koko could even create new signs when she didn't know the correct terms, such as “finger bracelet” for a ring and “orange flower sauce” for nectarine yogurt. Additionally, Koko taught Michael about 600 signs and recognized many more words than signs.

Chimpanzees like Washoe and Loulis also demonstrated capabilities in ASL, showing that they can mimic human language and communication. These examples highlight that primates have the capacity for complex thought and communication, even if they have not reached human levels of intelligence.

Potential for Future Evolution

While it is highly unlikely for gorillas and chimpanzees to evolve to match human intelligence, it is possible that their intelligence could increase over time. Similar to human evolution, they would need to develop a larger brain, which could be facilitated by a healthier diet due to cooking, similar to the fire mastery of our ancestors. This would lead to more complex brain development and higher levels of complex thought.

However, the exact appearance and traits of such evolved primates are speculative. Their physical and cognitive developments would depend on various environmental and genetic factors, making precise predictions difficult.

Given the significant time scale involved, even if the prerequisites for such evolution were met, it would likely take millions of years for gorillas and chimpanzees to achieve levels of intelligence comparable to humans.

Currently, humans are still ahead in terms of intellectual development and technological advancement. However, the potential for primates to evolve in fascinating ways cannot be entirely dismissed, particularly as scientific understanding of evolution and genetics continues to advance.