This week we’re getting specific about fossils. We’re going to deal with a supposed ape/human ancestor.
When conversing with a non-believer about the fossil record, I’ll ask, “What specific fossil evidence makes you believe in evolution?” Overwhelmingly, I’m reminded of Australopithecus afarensis. You probably know her as “Lucy.” Well, let’s see what the evidence actually supports.
Lucy was discovered in 1974 in Hadar, Ethiopia. It’s claimed that 40% of the bones were found, and that they were from a female.
She was nicknamed ‘Lucy’ after the song ‘Lucy in the sky with diamonds’ sung by The Beatles. This song was very popular at the time she was found.
https://australian.museum/learn/science/human-evolution/australopithecus-afarensis/
There’s only 2 problems:
- First, forty years after discovering Lucy’s bones, a Swiss scientist figured out that “Lucy” wasn’t a “she” after all … she was actually a “he.” Ouch!
- Second, they didn’t find 40% of the bones. There are 206 bones in human and ape skeletons. The vast majority of those are found in the hands and feet (over 100). Well, they found a whopping zero – zilch – nada – hand or foot bones for “Lucy”.
What did the bones they found actually show? That’s for next time. For more information check out our website at debunked.org. Stay bold!
Carl Kerby is the founder of Reasons for Hope and co-creator of the DeBunked apologetic video series. His radio feature, Fast Facts, is heard weekly on VCY America, Saturdays at 9:25 AM Central.
