1. The study of humankind at all times, and in all places
Anthropology
The study of humankind at all times, and in all places
Cultural Studies • Archaeology • Physical Anthropology• Linguistics

2. Studying Behavior
Humankind is behaviorally unique: We adapt to our environment by using Ideas!
Observations
Ideas, Beliefs, Values
Material Culture: Innovation and Invention

3. CULTURE
The most potent ability ever possessed by any creature since the beginning of Life on Earth
Beliefs, Traditions, Customs
Comparative Studies
Holistic Approach

4. Past Cultures
Archaeology Interprets past cultures through analysis of artifacts and features left behind:
Activities
Behaviors
Technologies
Social Structure

5. Human Adaptation
Humankind is bioculturally unique: We are the only species able to adapt to such varied environments.
What are the origins of humanity?
How and why have we changed over time?
What is adaptation and how is it related to Human Culture?

6. Cultural Variation
People are different from, yet similar to each other.
What are the differences?
What are the similarities?
Why are humans so different from all other creatures on earth?

7. Biocultural Evolution
We adapt to our environment BIOCULTURALLY – Not through biological response alone!

8. Science A method used to evaluate natural phenomena
Observations Become your data
Proposed Explanation
Develop a hypothesis
Test your hypothesis
Evaluate results of your test
REJECT or FAIL TO REJECT your hypothesis

9. Theories are never conclusively Proven
Scientific Theory
A body of knowledge resulting from the application of scientific method.
Rigorously tested results
High level, Middle Level, Low Level
Theories are never conclusively Proven

10. Archaeological Paradigms
Antiquarianism (Nebonidus)
Culture History (Diffusion, Migration)
Processualism (Scientific Approach, Adaptation)
Postprocessualism (Humanistic Approach, Contextual/Interpretive)
Critical Theory: Deconstruction