Paleoanthropology

1
Paleoanthropology

• The interdisciplinary approach to the study of
  earlier hominids, their chronology, physical
  structure, archaeological remains, habitats, etc.

2
Genetics

• The study of gene structure and action and the
  patterns of inheritance of traits from parent to
  offspring.
• Genetic mechanisms are the foundation for
  evolutionary change.

3
DNA

• Deoxyribonucleic acid
• Double-stranded molecule that contains the
  genetic code, a set of instructions for producing
  bodily structures and functions.
• DNA is a main component of chromosomes.

4
Cloning

• Cloning and sequencing methods are frequently
  used to identify genes in humans and non human
  primates.

5
The Scientific Method

• State the research problem.
• Develop a hypothesis.
• Test the hypothesis through data collection and
  analysis.
• If the hypothesis is verified, it becomes a
  theory.

SCIENCE A body of knowledge gained through
observation and experimentation from the Latin
scientia, meaning knowledge.
6
Theory

• A broad statement of scientific relationships or
  underlying principles that has been substantially
  verified through the testing of hypotheses.
• tested explanations of facts

7
Quantitative

• Pertaining to measurements of quantity and
  including such properties as size, number, and
  capacity.
• When data are quantified, theyre expressed
  numerically and can be tested statistically.

8
Anthropological Perspective

• A broad perspective that helps us understand the
  diversity of the human experience within the
  context of biological and behavioral continuity
  with other species.
• By learning about cultures other than our own, we
  can avoid an ethnocentric view of other cultures.
  
• By recognizing that we have similarities with
  other animals, we may recognize that they have a
  place in nature just as we do.

9
Why the Anthropological Perspective Matters

• Anthropology offers a wider appreciation of the
  human experience, in order to understand human
  beings and how our species came to be.
• How humans differ from and are similar to other
  animals, including nonhuman primates
• Understand the limits and potentials of humankind
• Allows us to understand other peoples concerns
  and view our own culture from a broader
  perspective

10
For Monday

• Read Jurmain Chapter 1 and Sandford Chapter 1
• The in-class writing is the first 20 minutes --
  Dont be late!!