ANT 204 - Human Evolution

1.  Provide students with a rigorous introduction to epistemology and scientific methodology.
2.  Introduce the fundamentals of evolutionary theory and the application of this framework for our understanding of human evolutionary history.
3.  Introduce the theory of evolution, its historical background and its articulation by Charles Darwin and modern modifications to Darwinian evolution.
4.  Explore the anatomical and phylogenetic context of human evolution by discussing the origin and evolution of primates and the origins of the first hominids and their place in the human family tree.
5.  Explain the origins of the genus Homo, the criteria used to differentiate these specimens and the emergence of the modern human suite of anatomical and behavioral characteristics.

Learning Outcomes of the Course:

Upon successful completion of this course the student will be able to:

1.  Acquire a firm understanding of what constitutes a scientific theory.
2.  Have an understanding of the components of the Theory of Evolution, including natural selection, gene flow, genetic drift and mutation, as well as related evolutionary concepts such as inclusive fitness, sexual selection and species concepts.
3.  Differentiate the distinct scientific disciplines which contribute to our understanding of human evolution, including paleoanthropology, archaeology, molecular biology, and evolutionary ecology.
4,.  Demonstrate a current understanding of the lineage of human evolution and of the scientific evidence for that interpretation.