Should RTB/OEC's Tweak Model in Light of New Data and if so How?

[swamidass (S. Joshua Swamidass)]

@anon46279830

I mean, if the MRCA of all humans given a starting population of two is 500K years ago I think that shuts the door on the Adam and Eve as sole human genetic progenitors doesn’t it? The genealogies were stretched to an uncomfortable degree when they said Adam was 70K ago.

Don’t forget about the interbreeding with Neanderthals. That adds in diversity that we did not account for, and allowing for interbreeding changes the analysis substantially. That is good news for RTB. You can start taking bets on of the model will survive or not.

That is beside the point. Even if it is valid, there are major advantages to a Genealogical Adam Model. At this time…

@swamidass

I would at this time focus on encouraging them to:

1. Work with Peaceful Science (as they currently plan to do) in order to test their model.
2. Bring Genealogical Adam into their tent.

I expect they will be receptive to both moves, especially if they are encouraged to make that shift by OEC’s like yourself. RTB is an important organization, and they are acting honorably. Give them some encouragement and some time.