ANTH 305 - Topics in Advanced Biological Anthropology

Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)

An examination of such topics as primate structure and behavior, the Plio-Pleistocene hominids, the final evolution of Homo sapiens sapiens, forensic anthropology, and human biological diversity.

May be repeated for credit if the topic has changed.

Topic for 2016/17b: A New Human Species. The 2013 discovery of an extinct species of human, Homo naledi, was remarkable for a number of reasons. First, the bones were discovered deep within a cave system which may suggest ritual burial behavior. Second, the number of bones recovered in just one field season is more than most sites have produced in decades of excavations. Thirdly, data from the site was made publically available using 3D scanning technology, setting a new standard in open access science. As with most major discoveries, the Homo naledi project also has its controversies. Some claim that the all-female excavation team was a publicity stunt. In this course, both the science and social saga of Homo naledi are examined to reveal the human side of science that is often underappreciated. Directly comparing the Homo naledi fossils with living and extinct humans, students will reconstruct this animal for themselves. Zachary Cofran.

Prerequisite(s): ANTH 232 or permission of the instructor.

One 3-hour period.