Which of the following best defines hominins?

The definition of hominins is best encapsulated by the concept of modern humans and our ancestral species. This classification includes all species that are more closely related to modern humans than they are to chimpanzees and bonobos, which means it covers not only Homo sapiens (modern humans) but also a variety of extinct species that share common ancestry with us. Examples of these ancestral species include Homo neanderthalensis (Neanderthals) and Homo habilis, among others. This broader perspective is essential for understanding human evolution, as it allows for a more comprehensive view of how traits and behaviors evolved through time.

A definition that focuses solely on modern humans excludes the rich context of our evolutionary history and the biological and cultural developments of our ancestors. Options that reference only extinct species or all primate species further complicate the definition and dilute the specific lineage connection that hominins represent. Therefore, an inclusive definition that encompasses both modern humans and our direct ancestors is crucial for studying human evolution.