*Human Evolutionary Biology 97y. Sophomore Tutorial in Human Evolutionary Biology
Catalog Number: 2205
Daniel E. Lieberman
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
An introduction to the issues and methods of biological anthropology, including evolutionary theory and its application to humans. Focuses on the comparison of primate and human physiology and social behavior as ecological adaptations and their application to understanding human evolution. Weekly readings, discussions, and short writing assignments, with a final research paper and presentation.
Note: Required of and limited to human evolutionary biology concentrators.
*Human Evolutionary Biology 99. Tutorial—Senior Year
Catalog Number: 2840
Daniel E. Lieberman
Full course (indivisible). Hours to be arranged.
Research and writing of the Senior Thesis. Limited to honors candidates. Signature of the faculty advisor required.
Please refer to the courses listed under Human Evolutionary Biology. The Biological Anthropology track within the Anthropology department addresses why humans and primates are the way they are from an evolutionary perspective. Undergraduate courses in Biological Anthropology are listed in the Human Evolutionary Biology concentration.
Human Evolutionary Biology 1312. Human Sexuality: Research and Presentation Seminar
Catalog Number: 5008 Enrollment: Limited to 15.
Judith F. Chapman
Half course (fall term). F., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
An examination of human sexuality from a scientific perspective. Students will read and present primary scientific literature that highlights current research on a variety of topics including: sexual development, gender identity, sexual orientation, cross cultural variations in mating systems, promiscuity, the evolution of monogamy, sexual attraction, sexual communication, including an exploration of the existence of human pheromones, libido and sexual dysfunction.
Human Evolutionary Biology 1315. Ecology of Modern Hunter Gatherers - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 2051
Karen L. Kramer
Half course (spring term). M., W., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
This course focuses on the variable ways that hunter-gatherers interface with their environment and make their living, and the implications of this subsistence strategy for their biology and behavior. During the first part of the course, key theoretical issues and debates that surround the study of modern hunter/gatherers will be discussed. Once this foundation is laid, the course will survey modern and historic hunter-gatherers from all the major geographic regions of the world.
Human Evolutionary Biology 1330 (formerly Anthropology 1330). Primate Social Behavior
Catalog Number: 4332
Richard W. Wrangham
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
A review of the behavioral interactions in natural primate populations, drawing on experimental, observational, and theoretical studies. Discussion of ecological, physiological, and developmental bases of primate social behavior, with special attention to the evolution of patterns of behavioral interactions among individuals of different age, sex, relatedness, and status. Topics include sexual conflict, sexual selection, and mating systems; care of offspring and other aid-giving; manipulative and cooperative aspects of communication; competition, dominance, and territoriality; and the evolution of social relationships.
Prerequisite: Introductory biology or Science B-29 or permission of Instructor.
Human Evolutionary Biology 1345. Human Structure
Catalog Number: 4433
Katherine K. Whitcome
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
This course examines the evolution, structure and function of the human body, with an emphasis on the musculo-skeletal system. Particular attention will be paid to key adaptations and features that have played critical roles in human evolutionary history such as locomotion, mastication, manipulation, the brain, and reproduction.
Human Evolutionary Biology 1355. Darwin Seminar: Evolution and Religion
Catalog Number: 8314
Peter T. Ellison
Half course (spring term). M., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 8, 9
A course on the intellectual history of evolution with rotating topics. The focus this year will be on the relationship between evolution and religion which has been a significant force in the social response to evolutionary theory from the 19th century to the present. We will consider this relationship from a number of perspectives, relying on the reading of primary texts from Paley to Dennett. We will consider both religious critiques of Darwinian evolutionary theory and evolutionary approaches to understanding religion.
[Human Evolutionary Biology 1368. Evolution of Human Sex Differences]
Catalog Number: 0389
Carole K. Hooven
Half course (spring term). W., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 8, 9
This course uses an evolutionary perspective to explore differences between human males and females. Lecturers will present evidence of differences in physiology, behavior, and cognition, and in discussions students will critically examine the relevant literature. We will cover topics such as sex differences in dominance behavior, parenting, sexuality, and aggression, emphasizing the role of sex hormones.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
*Human Evolutionary Biology 1375 (formerly *Anthropology 1375). Testosterone and Human Behavior
Catalog Number: 6933 Enrollment: Limited to 15.
Judith F. Chapman
Half course (spring term). Th., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 17, 18
An exploration of current research in human behavior and testosterone, including the relationships between normal variation in testosterone and variation in traits such as cognition, aggression, personality traits, and sexual behavior within both males and females. Medical uses of testosterone, such as anabolic steroids, hormone replacement therapy, and reassignment, are explored.
Note: Preference given to Human Evolutionary Biology and Biological Anthropology concentrators.
[Human Evolutionary Biology 1380 (formerly Anthropology 1380). The Behavioral Biology of Women]
Catalog Number: 8721
Cheryl D. Knott
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
An exploration of female behavior focusing on evolutionary, physiological, and biosocial aspects of women’s lives from puberty, through reproductive processes such as pregnancy, birth, lactation, to menopause and aging. Also explores female life history strategies in different cultural settings. Topics include cognitive and behavioral differences between men and women; violence against women; and women’s reproductive health choices. Examples are drawn from traditional and modern human societies and data from nonhuman primates are considered.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Human Evolutionary Biology 1414. Evolution of Human Diet: Research Seminar
Catalog Number: 9881
Cheryl D. Knott
Half course (spring term). W., 12–2. EXAM GROUP: 5, 6
An exploration of modern controversies in human nutrition from an evolutionary perspective, using primate and human dietary adaptations, digestive physiologies, feeding behavior and ecology. We will explore topics including: nutritional requirements, optimal foraging, maternal and infant nutrition, the nature of early hominid diets, the role of hunting and carnivory in human evolution, and finally, the nutritional impact of agriculture and technology on dietary composition and modern human diets.
Human Evolutionary Biology 1415 (formerly Anthropology 1415). Primate Evolutionary Ecology: Research Seminar
Catalog Number: 6341
Cheryl D. Knott
Half course (fall term). M., W., F., at 12 and a weekly laboratory W., 1. . EXAM GROUP: 5
An exploration of interactions between primates and their environments in an evolutionary context. Lectures discuss the influence of ecological processes on primate behavioral and morphological adaptations. Topics include environmental influences on social structure, mating systems, ranging and intergroup spacing, diet and nutrition, juvenile development, and reproductive and energetic physiology. Comparisons between the great apes are emphasized. Projects will involve learning methods of primate observation, energetic analysis and ecological investigation to explore socioecological questions using local vertebrates.
Prerequisite: An introductory course in Biology, Science B-29, or permission of instructor.
*Human Evolutionary Biology 1418 (formerly *Anthropology 1418). Endocrinology and Behavior: Research Seminar
Catalog Number: 1437 Enrollment: Limited to 8.
Susan F. Lipson
Half course (fall term). M., W., at 11 and a weekly laboratory either M. or W., 2-5. EXAM GROUP: 4
An introduction to laboratory techniques and research design in behavioral endocrinology. Students develop and conduct pilot research projects.
Note: Preference given to human evolutionary biology and biological anthropology concentrators and graduate students.
Prerequisite: Anthro 1310 or HEB 1310 or permission of the instructor.
[Human Evolutionary Biology 1420 (formerly Anthropology 1420). Human Anatomy]
Catalog Number: 6233
Daniel E. Lieberman
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
An integrative overview of human anatomy, with a focus on the musculo-skeletal system, including aspects of developmental biology, functional morphology, and physiology. Topics include: muscle and skeletal development, anatomy, and histology; the biomechanics of muscles and bones; craniofacial growth and development; the functional morphology of chewing, respiration, vocalization, locomotion, and other activities. Special attention paid to the unique aspects of human anatomy.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. No prior knowledge of anatomy is required.
[Human Evolutionary Biology 1425 (formerly Anthropology 1425). Primate and Human Nutrition: Research Seminar]
Catalog Number: 7064
Richard W. Wrangham
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
An introduction to laboratory study in the biochemical analysis of plant and animal foods, and of human and animal digestive physiology and feeding behavior. Topics include nutritional requirements, primate and human dietary adaptations and the nature of early hominid diets. Projects may include laboratory analyses of plant and animal foods, including samples collected from ongoing wild primate field projects or modern hunter/gatherer projects.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
*Human Evolutionary Biology 1463 (formerly *Anthropology 1463). Molecular Evolution of the Primates
Catalog Number: 3359
Maryellen Ruvolo
Half course (fall term). W., 1–4. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7, 8
Introduction to the primates, emphasizing their molecular evolutionary history and the forces that mold their genomes. Topics include the neutral theory of molecular evolution, molecular clock concept and its applications, evolution of multigene families, relationships between primate morphological and molecular evolution, molecular convergences, evidence for horizontal gene transfer in primate genomes, and evolution of simian and human immunodeficiency viruses, color vision genes.
Prerequisite: Life Sciences 1b.
[Human Evolutionary Biology 1490. Primate Evolution] - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 7376
David Pilbeam
Half course (spring term). M., W., F., at 10. EXAM GROUP: 3
A lecture/discussion course on primate evolution approached both systematically and systemically, and from a comparative perspective. Hominoids will be a particular focus. Following a review of major primate groups as adaptive radiations, important systems (for example, positonal, foraging, social and reproductive behaviors, and life histories) will be discussed comparatively. Regular section meetings will focus primarily on the fossil record and its explication using living primates.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. No prerequisites, but introductory courses in evolution, genetics, anatomy helpful.
[*Human Evolutionary Biology 1494r (formerly *Anthropology 1494r). The Hominid Fossil Record]
Catalog Number: 2462
David Pilbeam
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
A lecture-laboratory course on the fossil record of Hominidae, focusing on analysis and interpretation of the record based on casts.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Fulfills the research seminar requirement for human evolutionary biology and biological anthropology concentrators.
Prerequisite: Science B-27 or Anthropology 1420.
Human Evolutionary Biology 1565. Theories of Sexual Coercion - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 1953 Enrollment: Limited to 20.
Richard W. Wrangham and Diane L. Rosenfeld (Harvard Law School)
Half course (spring term). M., 5–7 p.m. EXAM GROUP: 9
Where does interpersonal violence come from? Is it learned? is it innate? Is it malleable? What are we to make of the gendered difference in the use of violence? What does the study of sexual violence in primates offer to our understanding of its prevalence among humans? In this course, we will examine evolutionary perspectives on male sexual coercion in primates and in humans to search for insights into sexual violence among humans. The review of this body of literature offers different analytical methods for questioning the use of sexual violence in our society, helping us identify new ways of preventing its occurrence.
Note: Offered jointly with Harvard Law School as LAW-99015A.
*Human Evolutionary Biology 1580 (formerly *Anthropology 1580). Paleoecology and Human Evolution
Catalog Number: 3509
John C. Barry
Half course (spring term). Tu., 1:30–3:30. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16, 17
A lecture-seminar course on the principles of paleoecology, including methods used to reconstruct past climate and ecosystems. There will be an emphasis on the ancient environments and paleoecology of early hominids. May be taken as a Research Seminar in Biological Anthropology.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.