An anthropological perspective Defining “Humanness” An anthropological perspective

Evolutionary Theories Jean-Baptiste Lamarck created the first cohesive theory of evolution, whereby a chemical force drove organisms up a ladder of complexity Charles Darwin refined this theory into what is now considered the modern theory of evolution

Natural Selection Natural selection: The gradual biological process whereby traits are passed through generations in order to allow species to better adapt to– and survive in– their environment Evolution: The gradual change in inherited biological characteristics, resulting in diversity among populations over successive generations.

Main Species Ardipithecus Ramidus Aka “Ardi” 4.4 million years old Up to 4 feet tall, 100 pounds Bipedal, but with opposable toes to climb trees Most complete early hominid skeleton, even more complete than Lucy

Main Species Australopithecus Afarensis Aka “Lucy” 3.9-2.9 million years old About 3 feet tall Bipedal

Main Species Homo Habilis Homo Ergaster Homo Erectus 2.33-1.4 million years old Cranial capacity slightly less than half that of a modern human First to use crude stone tools Homo Habilis Homo Ergaster 1.8-1.3 million years old Considered a direct ancestor of… Homo Erectus 1.8 million-300, 000 years old Used stone tools for cutting and chopping

Main Species Homo Heidelbergensis Homo Neanderthalensis 600-400, 000 years old Used stone tools similar to Homo Erectus Direct ancestor of… Existed between 600- 350, 000 years ago Evidence of populations having existed until 24, 000 years ago Thought to have interbred with another contemporary species, contributing to the DNA of… Homo Neanderthalensis

Main Species YOU! Homo Sapiens Anatomical modernity about 200, 000 years ago Behavioural modernity about 50, 000 years ago YOU!

Adapting to Our Changing Environment Adaptations made 50, 000 years ago Developing language Agriculture- Farming and animal husbandry Social structures, living within a society Building complex shelters, communities, architecture Using more complex tools, technology Art, science Faith, religion

Thank You!