654-307 Evolution and Human Origins

Some 200-level subjects in a biological discipline (including psychology) or history and philosophy of science. Zoology 654-202 and 654-204 are recommended.

This subject aims to provide students with an appreciation of the modern theory of evolution, as a basis for understanding biological diversity and adaptation, including a general understanding of the pattern and process of human evolution.

Specific topics to be addressed will usually include the contribution of Darwin and Wallace; natural selection and adaptation; the roles of chance and constraint in evolution; the origin and extinction of species; adaptive radiation, with particular reference to the primates; the fossil record and major evolutionary transitions; the fossil evidence of human origins; and the origin and expansion of human populations and their consequences.

A 3-hour end-of-semester written examination; up to 3000 words of essay work and/or a report may be included in the assessment.