ANTH-B 370 HUMAN VARIATION (3 CR.)
Explores the variation within and between human populations in morphology (anatomy), physiology, genetics, and behavior with a focus on evolutionary processes acting on humans in the past, present and future to shape our body and genes.
1 classes found
Spring 2024
Component | Credits | Class | Status | Time | Day | Facility | Instructor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
LEC | 3 | 8099 | Open | 1:15 p.m.–2:30 p.m. | MW | SB 150 | Kaestle F |
Regular Academic Session / In Person
LEC 8099: Total Seats: 74 / Available: 33 / Waitlisted: 0
Lecture (LEC)
- COLL (CASE) N&M Breadth of Inq
- P: Sophomore, Junior, or Senior standing
- Above class meets with another section of ANTH-B
- COLL (CASE) N&M Breadth of Inquiry credit
This course explores the variation within and between human populations in morphology (anatomy), physiology, genetics and behavior with a focus on evolutionary processes acting on humans in the past, present and future to shape our body, behavior and genes. We will explore current hypotheses regarding human variation in a multitude of traits including (but not limited to) skin color, body shape, blood type, response to stress, disease resistance, cognition, personality, gender and sexual orientation. Special attention will be focused on how our environment helps to shape our biology. We will also examine issues of race and social status in the context of human variation and society. A historical perspective as well as connections to current events will be emphasized. The topics of this course involve important questions facing our society and revolve around new and constantly evolving science and technology. Major themes for this course include: The principles underlying human biological variation (genetics, evolution), patterns of human variation today and their causes, nature vs. nurture, genes and behavior, the ethical dilemmas of research on human variation, and modern applications. By the end of the semester you will understand not just how humans vary biologically, but WHY we vary in these ways and how that is relevant not just to reconstructing our history but also shaping our present and future. You will also understand the basic ethical issues associated with research on human biological variation, and be able to explain a rational for any opinions you hold on these topics. You will also be able to critically evaluate primary scientific literature. There is no required textbook for this course. All readings and other course materials will be available online through our course Canvas site. A note on course materials ¿ you will be reading a variety of materials that span the history of the field, including writing that utilizes outdated and sometimes offensive terminology. Some of this material might also advance hypotheses and attitudes typical of the time period and culture within which the research was done, including ideas that are racist, sexist, colonialist, and otherwise bigoted. The purpose of these readings is not to offend, but to inform our understanding of the history of the field, and to examine the place of this research in shaping the modern science of human variation.