What does it mean to be human? Where did we come from? Where are we going? This course investigates long-term evolutionary perspectives onteh hunman species. The basics of evolution and natural selection as scientific theories are clearly set out and examined, and common misconceptions discussed. Edvidence for the evolution of mamals and primates is reviewed and discussed, and the common characteristics of these species are highlighted, demonstrating the connections between humans and other forms fo life. The course covers what we know about human ancestor and the eolution of modern humans. Students are introduced to the wide range of human adaptations to local conditions across contemporary cultures and the variety of relationshipd that human populations have with the environment. Students are encouraged to use the knowledge they have acquired to ask; are these relationships always sustainable? Looking to the future; what are our responsibilities both to future generations of humans and towards other species with which we share our world?
This course aims to give students an understanding and appreciation of evolutionary perspective on the place of humans in the world, the variety of contemportary human societies, and a broad perspective on teh complexity of the relationship between humans, the environment and other species. (Not for studens who have taken UGB250U.)