quasihumans

Quasihumans refer to fictional or speculative beings that share many traits with humans but possess distinct differences in appearance, abilities, or origins. The concept often arises in science fiction, fantasy, and alternative history narratives, where these entities serve as variations on the human species to explore themes of evolution, ethics, and societal structure.

In literature and media, quasihumans frequently exhibit physical modifications such as enhanced musculature, non-human anatomical features, or altered facial structures. Some depictions emphasize biological differences, such as genetic mutations, cybernetic augmentations, or extraterrestrial ancestry, while others focus on cultural or behavioral distinctions. These beings may inhabit parallel worlds, dystopian futures, or alternate timelines, providing a lens through which to examine human nature under different conditions.

The term is sometimes used interchangeably with "humanoids," though quasihumans often imply a closer resemblance to humans, with subtle deviations rather than outright alien traits. They appear in works ranging from classic novels like *The Time Machine* by H.G. Wells, where the Eloi and Morlocks represent divergent human descendants, to modern franchises like *The Last of Us*, where infected and mutated humans challenge traditional notions of humanity.

Philosophically, quasihumans prompt questions about what defines humanity—whether it lies in biology, consciousness, or social behavior. They also serve as tools for critiquing real-world issues, such as inequality, environmental collapse, or technological dependency, by projecting them onto hypothetical human-like societies. While not a formal biological or anthropological term, quasihumans remain a versatile concept in speculative storytelling.