This debate does not even scratch surface. And I find it bit unsettling.<p>Most Europeans could claim Neanderthal ancestry, because they shared genes. Question if Neanderthals were human is not even theoretical.<p>Last Neanderthals walked 35K BC. There are tribes which were isolated for 50K or more years. In theory they have a huge genetic difference, also their morphological difference is big, Does that mean they are separate species? Species are often recognized by their shape rather than genes, for example grizzly and polar bear have practically identical genes.<p>And great apes? I find it insensible to make them humans, when 50% world population does not have even basic human rights. In Western Countries dogs have more rights than many people.<p>Bet lets assume that great apes are humans. Does it mean they have legal obligations? Could chimpanzee go to prison for torturing animals (bush babies). What if gang of chimpanzee kills other human?