121-069 Evolution of Consciousness

This subject will examine recent advances in anthropology, paleontology, the neurosciences, psychology, and evolutionary biology which are producing new ideas about the origins of and relationships between the human brain, mind, language, behaviour, and culture. Specific topics to be discussed will include recent studies of the evolution of language and the relationships between the morphological, mental and cultural evolution of Homo sapiens, with reference to recent advances in the neurobiology of consciousness. On completion of the subject students should have a grounding in evolutionary anthropology and in evolutionary approaches to the study of culture and human sociality.

• have practice in conducting research and speaking articulately;

• have practice in writing clearly in a variety of formats and reading with attention to detail;

• have experience of systematically evaluating a body of empirical data and identifying its theoretical context;

• have experience of methods of critical inquiry and argument leading to improved analytical skills;

• have acquired awareness of issues relating to cross-cultural communication.

Written work totalling 4000 words comprising an essay of 2500 words 60% (due Monday after SWOT VAC) and two 800 word tutorial papers 40% (due in the 5th and 9th weeks of semester).

A subject reader will be available from the Bookroom at the beginning of semester