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Nature 420, 611 (12 December 2002) | doi:10.1038/420611a

Progressive evolution: Aspirational thinking

Henry Gee1

We've all seen the commercials. A line of figures walking from left to right, first a shambling ape on all fours; the second, semi-erect with a vague glimmer of intelligence, and perhaps holding a hand-axe; further along, a tall, proud man, carrying a spear and wearing furs; and finally, a user of the latest car or washing machine.