1. An anthropological perspective
Defining “Humanness”
An anthropological perspective

2. 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

3. 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.

4. 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

5. Main Species Australopithecus Afarensis Aka “Lucy”
million years old
About 3 feet tall
Bipedal

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

7. Main Species Homo Heidelbergensis Homo Neanderthalensis
, 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

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

9. 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

10. Thank You!