ANTH 387 - Darwin and Evolutionary Thought

This course examines the influence of Charles Darwin on both the discipline of Anthropology and general scientific thought in the 20th century. It begins with an exploration of the emergence of modern evolutionary theory, its role in society, and how it is essential to the field of Anthropology. We consider some of the work of Darwin’s predecessors, who laid the intellectual and scientific foundations that Darwin built upon, as well as those who adapted Darwin’s concepts to theories of social change. Students also read and discuss some of the biggest debates surrounding the theory of Evolution by Natural Selection, both past and present. Finally, we look at the future of evolutionary theory in light of recent developments in molecular biology and the fossil record. Prerequisite(s): One of the following: ANTH 101, ANTH 111, ANTH 112, ANTH 115, BIOL 112, BIOL 180, or BIOL 170. (4 Credits)