The idea that our genes are destiny is another myth Lieberman seeks to debunk. While genes certainly play a role in our health, personality, and risk for certain diseases, they are far from the whole story. Population studies find that gene variants may nudge your risk up or down for things like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, but your habits – diet, exercise, sleep, stress etc, shape your outcomes far more. Lieberman’s work and other research show that environment, lifestyle, and choices “turn on” or “turn off” many genes. Cultivating healthier habits truly matters regardless of family history or DNA profiles.
Sources
Harvard Magazine article on Lieberman discussing human evolution, health, and chronic diseases:
https://www.harvardmagazine.com/2013/10/daniel-lieberman-story-human-body
Daniel Lieberman’s Wikipedia page summarizing his research on human evolution and physical activity:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_Lieberman
Official Harvard profile page highlighting his focus on evolution of physical activity, health, and disease prevention:
https://heb.fas.harvard.edu/people/daniel-e-lieberman
Harvard Magazine video and article featuring Lieberman on evolutionary science and exercise:
https://www.harvardmagazine.com/2024/10/harvard-evolutionary-case-for-exercise
Sample of Lieberman’s scientific paper on barefoot running and evolutionary medicine (PDF):
https://scholar.harvard.edu/files/dlieberman/files/2012c.pdf
Academic article summarizing Lieberman’s book “Exercised” and its insights about exercise, evolution, and health:
https://academic.oup.com/emph/article/2020/1/311/5942685
Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice