Biological Anthropology [Paperback]

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.

Preface

To the Reader

1 Biological Anthropology

In the Field: Doing Biological Anthropology

Among the Hutterites

A Hawaiian in Connecticut

What Is Biological Anthropology?

Defining Anthropology

The Specialties of Bioanthropology

Bioanthropology and Science

The Scientific Method

Some Common Misconceptions about Science

Science Is Conducted in a Cultural Context

Contemporary Reflections: Is Evolution a Fact, a Theory, or Just a Hypothesis?

Summary

Questions for Further Thought

Key Terms

Suggested Readings

2 The Evolution of Evolution

On the Shoulders of Giants : Explaining the Changing Earth

The Biblical Context

The Framework of Natural Philosophy

Common Sense at Its Best : Explaining Biological Change

Darwin's Predecessors

Charles Darwin

The Modern Theory of Evolution

Contemporary Reflections: Has Science Dehumanized Society?

Summary

Questions for Further Thought

Key Terms

Suggested Readings

3 Evolutionary Genetics

How Genes Work

An Overview of the Human Genome

From Genes to Traits

How Inheritance Works

Contemporary Reflections: What is Genetic Cloning?

Summary

Questions for Further Thought

Key Terms

Suggested Readings

4 The Processes of Evolution

Species: The Units of Evolution

The Four Processes of Evolution

Mutations: Necessary Errors

Natural Selection: The Prime Mover of Evolution

Gene Flow: Mixing Populations' Genes

Genetic Drift: Random Evolution

Sickle Cell Anemia: Evolutionary Processes in AlS×