All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
People have changed a lot in the last century
Last reviewed: 02.07.2025
Scientists studying the evolutionary changes of humanity have noticed that over the last century, people have changed dramatically.
In the course of current evolution and as a result of the influence of various factors, the human body is constantly changing. Its changes have become especially noticeable over the last hundred years. Scientists believe that such rapid changes are caused, first of all, by the improvement of living conditions, diversity of food, and the increase in the level of medical care.
Experts highlight the following series of key changes:
- The man grew taller.
A recent experiment showed that the population of successfully developing countries has become taller. For example, Americans were previously considered the tallest: their average height was 1 m 77 cm. Today, this record has been “beaten” by the Dutch – 1 m 85 cm.
It is true that in countries where wars or epidemics were recorded, the average growth rate periodically decreased.
- The man began to weigh more.
Since the 1970s, scientists have been analyzing the dynamics of physical development of the Mayan population living in regions of Mexico, North America, and Guatemala. It was discovered that over time, the weight of children and young people increased, and many even became obese.
Further research has revealed a similar trend in the population of the Earth as a whole. For example, in 2013, almost 30% of the planet's inhabitants suffered from excess body weight. Several factors were to blame: physical inactivity, overeating, and the growing activity of viral infections.
- People began to live longer.
According to statistics from the World Health Organization, the average life expectancy on the planet has increased and is now about 70 years. Scientists assume that in 10-15 years this figure will reach 80-85 years.
In addition, it was discovered that humanity not only began to live longer: people began to die from other diseases than before. In recent years, the number of deaths from autoimmune pathologies, multiple sclerosis, and diabetes has increased.
- Man has become more stupid.
To the great regret of specialists, it was discovered that the intellectual level of modern people has fallen by fourteen positions, compared to people who lived at the beginning of the last century. Most likely, this is not due to the level of education, but to the growth of scientific and technical progress and the creation of better living conditions than a century ago. Simply put, people have become lazier, they no longer have such a desire to learn or discover something new.
Experts note that a small percentage of the population, on the contrary, has become “smarter” - however, this does not significantly change the overall statistical indicators.
What awaits humanity in the next hundred years, given how rapidly technology is entering our lives?
Scientists express serious concerns that further evolutionary development will be determined by genetic engineering. Nanotechnology, plastic surgery and modern pharmacology will be able to radically influence human life, which will contribute to the emergence of new changes.
[ 1 ]