Human Population Biology (425-0-1)

Instructors

William Leonard
847/491-4839
1810 Hinman Ave., Room #A55, EV Campus

Meeting Info

2001 Sheridan GPC/WCAS 5228: Thurs 2:00PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

This course will provide an overview of current theory,
methods and research directions in human population
biology. The course will specifically focus on the
influence of ecological and social factors on various
aspects of human biological variation. The adaptation
concept will first be presented, discussed and
critiqued. We will then examine the history of the field
of human biology/adaptability, highlighting how early
landmark studies have shaped current research
directions in the field. Finally, we will explore how
adaptation to different ecological stressors
(temperature, solar radiation, high altitude,
diet/nutrition, and lifestyle changes) promotes human
biological diversity. The central theoretical issue is that
of natural selection in human populations: how has it
operated in the past, and what is the evidence for
ongoing selection and adaptation in humans today?

Learning Objectives

1. To examine key elements of evolutionary theory as they apply to human population biology.
2. To evaluate the role of specific environmental parameters in promoting human biological variation.
3. To discuss current controversies and identify key unanswered questions in human biology.

Class Materials (Required)

readings posted on Canvas