Biological Anthropologyis a concise introduction to the basic themes, theories, methods and facts of bioanthropology. The scientific method provides a framework that brings accessibility and context to the material. This seventh edition presents the most recent findings and interpretations of topics in anthropology includingAustralopithecus sediba, the Denisovians, and epigenetics.
PrefaceTo the Reader1 Biological AnthropologyIn the Field: Doing Biological AnthropologyAmong the HutteritesA Hawaiian in ConnecticutWhat Is Biological Anthropology?Defining AnthropologyThe Specialties of BioanthropologyBioanthropology and ScienceThe Scientific MethodSome Common Misconceptions about ScienceScience Is Conducted in a Cultural ContextContemporary Reflections: Is Evolution a Fact, a Theory, or Just a Hypothesis?SummaryQuestions for Further ThoughtKey TermsSuggested Readings2 The Evolution of Evolution On the Shoulders of Giants : Explaining the Changing EarthThe Biblical ContextThe Framework of Natural Philosophy Common Sense at Its Best : Explaining Biological ChangeDarwin's PredecessorsCharles DarwinThe Modern Theory of EvolutionContemporary Reflections: Has Science Dehumanized Society?SummaryQuestions for Further ThoughtKey TermsSuggested Readings3 Evolutionary GeneticsHow Genes WorkAn Overview of the Human GenomeFrom Genes to TraitsHow Inheritance WorksContemporary Reflections: What is Genetic Cloning?SummaryQuestions for Further ThoughtKey TermsSuggested Readings4 The Processes of EvolutionSpecies: The Units of EvolutionThe Four Processes of EvolutionMutations: Necessary ErrorsNatural Selection: The Prime Mover of EvolutionGene Flow: Mixing Populations' GenesGenetic Drift: Random EvolutionSickle Cell Anemia: Evolutionary Processes in Al³'