Topics in Anthropology (490-0-1)

Topic

Primate Diversity: Foundations for Understanding H

Instructors

Katherine Ryan Amato
847/467-5890
1810 Hinman Avenue, Room A62
Katie Amato is a biological anthropologist studying the gut microbiota in the broad context of host ecology and evolution. She is particularly interested in understanding how changes in the gut microbiota impact human nutrition and health in populations around the world, especially those with limited access to nutritional resources.

Meeting Info

ANTHRO Sem Rm B07 - 1810 Hinmn: Wed 2:00PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

Within the order Primates an astounding range of physiological adaptations and behaviors are represented. What processes led to this extreme diversification? How can an understanding of primate diversity inform studies of human physiology and behavior? In this course we will use both classic and recent non-human primate studies to explore topics such as nutrition, growth, disease, sociality, cognition, and communication. We will also address the issue of primate-human conflict and conservation. At the end of this course, you will understand ecological and evolutionary theories relevant for explaining variation across the primate phylogeny and appreciate how studies of non-human primates impact our perspectives on human physiology and behavior.

Learning Objectives

"1) Build an appreciation for the ecological diversity of the order Primates
2) Develop familiarity with primate research in key areas of anthropology
3) Identify links between non-human primate and human physiology and behavior research"

Class Materials (Required)

None

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Reserved for Graduate Students.