It’s hard to overestimate the impact genetics has had on our understanding of evolution. But one nice example comes from the history of the FOX2P gene and its role in the evolution of language. It’s a nice example because it illustrates both the complexity and utility of genetics. In the popular press FOX2P has been heralded as the ‘language gene’. But this is a simplification, the path from the genome to the person isn’t straightforward and it is influenced by multiple interacting factors (other genes, environmental and developmental processes to name a few). So is FOX2P the ‘language gene’, I’m afraid not, it’s certainly necessary for speech and it has a role to play in our fine motor control but the story behind the evolution of language hasn’t been solved quite yet and there are many, many more factors to consider. So, next time you read about the ‘X’ gene, whether the crime gene or the gay gene, take it with a massive pinch of salt.