Application of Lifespan To The Human Context

Even before civilisation, people were unique among apes in having low mortality and long lives.

Hunter-gatherers armed with spears and bows could defend against predators; food sharing prevented starvation.

So we evolved delayed sexual maturity, and long lifespans – up to 70 years .

Still, child mortality was high – approaching 50% or more by age 15. Average life expectancy was just 35 years . Even after the rise of civilisation, child mortality stayed high until the 19th century, while life expectancy went down – to 30 years – due to plagues and famines.