Human Origins (213-0-1)

Meeting Info

ANTHRO Sem Rm 104 - 1810 Hinmn: Tues, Thurs 10:00AM - 12:30PM

Overview of class

This course will examine the evolution of the human species and the nature of human biological variation in the modern world. We will first cover the principles of evolutionary theory and genetics to establish a framework for the study of human biology. We will consider fossil evidence of human evolution and comparative data from non-human primates as we explore the nuances of contemporary human sociality and biology. Particular attention will be given to the behavioral and biological adaptations that allowed prehistorical human populations to spread around the world. Finally, we will discuss how the socio-ecological environment (e.g., status, nutrition, disease) shapes the biological variation we observe today, both between and within human populations. This course counts toward the Weinberg College natural sciences distribution requirement.

Class Materials (Required)

Essentials of Biological Anthropology, 5th edition, 2021 (ISBN: 978-0-393-87684-0). We will be using this textbook and InQuisitive. Access to InQuisitive may be purchased separately if buying a used book.

**We have been offered a free E-Book version of the 6th edition textbook (2025, ISBN-13: 9781324084037) and free access to InQuisitive for the Summer 2026 class. Instructions to access this will be provided on the first day of class.**
Please see website here: https://digital.wwnorton.com/essanthro6
Norton Tech Support: https://wwnorton.com/tech-support

Class Attributes

Natural Sciences Foundational Discipline
Face to face: In person, in campus space