2009 Course Handbook
ANTH151: Human Evolution and Diversity
New findings in such fields as archaeology, genetics and evolutionary science have radically reshaped our understanding of our species. In this unit, we will take a holistic, anthropological perspective on human origins and contemporary diversity. That is, we will consider a wide range of research, not only from anthropology, but also from such fields as archaeology, genetics, primatology, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, and physiology. Topics will include the many early hominids; the rise of modem humans and our distinctive physical adaptations; human genetic and phenotypic variation; the origin and impact of language, culture and art on our species; the development of technology including stone tools and the domestication of food; and the evolutionary significance of human diet, childrearing, sexuality, aggression, and disease. The unit will use current controversies and discoveries - such as the proposal of' gay genes' , arguments about 'intelligent design', Neandertal DNA, the 'Hobbit' of Flores, genetic evidence of human migration, collapse of civilisations, and links between racial identity and athletic ability - as ways to understand the nature of our species' development and variety.
| Credit Points: | 3 |
| Contact Hours: | 3 |
| When Offered: | D2 - Day; Offered in the second half-year |
| Staff Contact: | Dr Greg Downey |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Corequisites: | |
| NCCWs: | |
| Unit Designations: | -- |
| Assessed As: | Graded |
| Offered By: |
Department of Anthropology |
Timetable Information
For unit timetable information please visit the Timetables@Macquarie Website.