Introduction to Physical Anthropology, Media Edition (with Basic Genetics for Anthropology CD-ROM and InfoTrac ) (Media Edition)
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Excellent, brand new and shipped fast
Introduction to Physical Anthropology, Media Edition (with Basic Genetics for Anthropology CD-ROM and InfoTrac ) (Media Edition)
Robert Jurmain , Lynn Kilgore , and Wenda Trevathan
Manufacturer: Wadsworth Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

GeneralGeneral | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
SociobiologySociobiology | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Sociology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
All TitlesAll Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
NonfictionNonfiction | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
Similar Items:
  1. Study Guide for Jurmain/Kilgore/Trevathan's Introduction to Physical Anthropology, 10th Study Guide for Jurmain/Kilgore/Trevathan's Introduction to Physical Anthropology, 10th
  2. Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 07/08 (Annual Editions : Physical  Anthropology) Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 07/08 (Annual Editions : Physical Anthropology)
  3. The Human Evolution Coloring Book, 2e (HarperCollins Coloring Books (Not Childrens)) The Human Evolution Coloring Book, 2e (HarperCollins Coloring Books (Not Childrens))
  4. Biological Anthropology: An Introductory Reader Biological Anthropology: An Introductory Reader
  5. Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 06/07 (Annual Editions : Physical  Anthropology) Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 06/07 (Annual Editions : Physical Anthropology)

Accessories:
  1. Study Guide for Jurmain/Kilgore/Trevathan's Introduction to Physical Anthropology, 10th Study Guide for Jurmain/Kilgore/Trevathan's Introduction to Physical Anthropology, 10th
  2. Basic Genetics for Anthropology CD-ROM: Principles and Applications (Stand Alone Version) for Jurmain/Kilgore/Trevathan's Introduction to Physical Anthropology, 10th Basic Genetics for Anthropology CD-ROM: Principles and Applications (Stand Alone Version) for Jurmain/Kilgore/Trevathan's Introduction to Physical Anthropology, 10th

ASIN: 0534644228

Book Description

This mainstream, full-color physical anthropology text is the best-selling text in the market! While it continues to present a comprehensive, well-balanced introduction to the field of physical anthropology, this is a major revision and the book has shifted emphases in critical areas of biology, including molecular biology and genetics, to reflect the field as it stands today. Now, as a Media Edition, INTRODUCTION TO PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY automatically comes with the new BASIC GENETICS CD which responds to growing interest in genetic variation driven by advances in molecular biology enhance.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Excellent, brand new and shipped fast.......2007-02-21

This was a good deal, it was brand new and it shipped very fast. I was impressed.
Biological Anthropology: The Natural History of Humankind
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • A bit of family history revealed
Biological Anthropology: The Natural History of Humankind
Craig Stanford , John S. Allen , and Susan C. Anton
Manufacturer: Prentice Hall
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

GeneralGeneral | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
PhysicalPhysical | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
SociobiologySociobiology | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Sociology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
All TitlesAll Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
NonfictionNonfiction | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
Similar Items:
  1. Through a Window Through a Window
  2. Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 07/08 (Annual Editions : Physical  Anthropology) Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 07/08 (Annual Editions : Physical Anthropology)
  3. The Human Evolution Coloring Book, 2e (HarperCollins Coloring Books (Not Childrens)) The Human Evolution Coloring Book, 2e (HarperCollins Coloring Books (Not Childrens))
  4. Lucy: The Beginnings of Humankind Lucy: The Beginnings of Humankind
  5. A Photographic Atlas for Physical Anthropology A Photographic Atlas for Physical Anthropology

ASIN: 0131828924

Book Description

The only book that integrates the foundations and the most current innovations in the field from the ground up . Over the past twenty years, this field has rapidly evolved from the study of physical anthropology into biological anthropology, incorporating the evolutionary biology of humankind based on information from the fossil record and the human skeleton, genetics of individuals and of populations, our primate relatives, human adaptation, and human behavior . Stanford combines the most up-to-date, comprehensive coverage of the foundations of the field with the modern innovations and discoveries.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars A bit of family history revealed .......2007-06-22

Although published as a textbook for university students, this volume is an excellent read for anybody wishing to understand the course of evolution. The authors have assembled a wealth of material, organised it in an effective manner and presented it with outstanding prose skill. Lead author Craig Stanford, whose books on primate behaviour are well-known, is joined by neurologist and geneticist John Allen and anthropologist Susan Anton. The trio brings many years of experience to the task of explaining human origins.



After a brief introduction explaining what is meant by "Biological Anthropology", the authors provide a fine survey of the basic mechanisms of natural selection - DNA and genetics. Their depiction of how the genome is formed and how that structure builds the elements needed for natural selection to operate is an outstanding brief summary. Using available chemicals, DNA's mechanisms to build cells are explained, supplemented by vivid graphic images. From the process of cell building, the authors move on to show how the completed organism must deal with its environment, which includes other creatures, plant life and climate conditions through adaptation down succeeding generations. The authors describe the various factors leading to producing new species, isolation, elapsed time and new conditions. They also address the issue of how fossils and conditions are recorded in time and how researchers use a variety of techniques to determine age and place.



The species of concern, of course, are the primates. The sudden demise of the great reptiles that had ruled the Earth for over 150 million years opened new vistas for the life that survived the catastrophe. Little, fur-bearing creatures moved into niches that allowed rapid change. Many varieties emerged, but noteworthy among them were shrew-sized omnivores. Spreading over the land and forests, some of them developed new traits that would ultimately lead to us. The origin of the primates is lost in the mists of time, compounded by the paucity of fossils and lack of agreement on what typifies a "primate". The earliest proposed species bears the ungainly name of "Plesiadapiforms". The authors describe the traits suggesting these were our earliest ancestors, while explaining what is lacking to establish a firm identity. Each of the points they introduce is enhanced by the contending researchers' arguments over lineage.



Once past the vague beginnings, the team offers insights into how ape transformed into human. The physiological trends, such as jaw structure and teeth are outlined. Each of the fossil examples of pre-human hominids is examined critically with the important elements indicating its lineage in the human story assessed. From a lonely skull in a desert to remote caves, creatures that one day would lead to you and me are revealed. At some point, one or more of the ape-like animals stood upright. Demonstrating what a major step this was, with changes in spinal column, head position and posture, the new form proved to be even more adaptable than its predecessors. Not the least of the advantages gained, they note, is the ability to travel long distances with minimal energy expenditure. As much as we've learned, the authors remind us of the many questions remaining. The actual number of species, where and how they lived, and how many lineages did the ape ancestor lead to over the millennia?



Emerging "modern" forms bring new challenges in understanding. Although early apes sent offshoots out of Africa, it was the hominids that proved to be the most ambitious travellers. Homo erectus spent over a million years traversing Asia, leaving fossils in far-flung sites across the continent and in the islands southeast of the mainland. Their remains have been dated to as recently as 25 to 50 thousand years old. The recent find on the island of Flores suggest an even more recent descendant. A new species, Homo sapiens, and its own diaspora out of Africa follows. Its most significant aspect, the development of intelligence and language is thoroughly examined. A major change took place leading to the one species with the highest proportion of brain size to body weight. Coupled with changes in physiology, our species created a new form of intricate communication abilities. The brain also went through changes in organisation. Which factor made the greatest contribution to human behaviour patterns is the concluding segment of the book. It is that aspect of our history that remains most contentious and the authors examine the various views surrounding that issue. It's a fitting conclusion to this in-depth and comprehensive study. [stephen a. haines - Ottawa, Canada]
Primates and Philosophers: How Morality Evolved (The University Center for Human Values Series)
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Plausible
  • Welcome new perspectives on moral theorizing
  • Critically Important Research
  • Excellent
  • Our hertitage deepens
Primates and Philosophers: How Morality Evolved (The University Center for Human Values Series)
Frans de Waal
Manufacturer: Princeton University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Ethics & MoralityEthics & Morality | Philosophy | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Philosophy | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
Social Psychology & InteractionsSocial Psychology & Interactions | Psychology & Counseling | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Biology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
PrimatologyPrimatology | Zoology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Evolution | Science | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Science | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | History & Philosophy | Science | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Behavioral Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Biology | Biological Sciences | Professional Science | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
PrimatologyPrimatology | Zoology | Biological Sciences | Professional Science | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Evolution | Professional Science | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
  1. Moral Minds: How Nature Designed Our Universal Sense of Right and Wrong Moral Minds: How Nature Designed Our Universal Sense of Right and Wrong
  2. The Evolution of Morality (Life and Mind: Philosophical Issues in Biology and Psychology) The Evolution of Morality (Life and Mind: Philosophical Issues in Biology and Psychology)
  3. Our Inner Ape Our Inner Ape
  4. The Altruism Equation: Seven Scientists Search for the Origins of Goodness The Altruism Equation: Seven Scientists Search for the Origins of Goodness
  5. Evolution for Everyone: How Darwin's Theory Can Change the Way We Think About Our Lives Evolution for Everyone: How Darwin's Theory Can Change the Way We Think About Our Lives

ASIN: 0691124477

Book Description

"It's the animal in us," we often hear when we've been bad. But why not when we're good? Primates and Philosophers tackles this question by exploring the biological foundations of one of humanity's most valued traits: morality.

In this provocative book, primatologist Frans de Waal argues that modern-day evolutionary biology takes far too dim a view of the natural world, emphasizing our "selfish" genes. Science has thus exacerbated our reciprocal habits of blaming nature when we act badly and labeling the good things we do as "humane." Seeking the origin of human morality not in evolution but in human culture, science insists that we are moral by choice, not by nature.

Citing remarkable evidence based on his extensive research of primate behavior, de Waal attacks "Veneer Theory," which posits morality as a thin overlay on an otherwise nasty nature. He explains how we evolved from a long line of animals that care for the weak and build cooperation with reciprocal transactions. Drawing on both Darwin and recent scientific advances, de Waal demonstrates a strong continuity between human and animal behavior. In the process, he also probes issues such as anthropomorphism and human responsibilities toward animals.

Based on the Tanner Lectures de Waal delivered at Princeton University's Center for Human Values in 2004, Primates and Philosophers includes responses by the philosophers Peter Singer, Christine M. Korsgaard, and Philip Kitcher and the science writer Robert Wright. They press de Waal to clarify the differences between humans and other animals, yielding a lively debate that will fascinate all those who wonder about the origins and reach of human goodness.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Plausible.......2007-09-19

This is a very short book. The main essay has just about over 50 pages. The rest is introduction, some responses, and a closing statement.
Who says that important books need to be long? Possibly it is not all that important, but the main idea is new to me, therefore I am glad that I picked it up, after a recommendation in Der Spiegel.
Let me also say, I don't find the main hypothesis really compelling, in the sense of thoroughly thought through and explained. But I think it is plausible, and as I had been used to think in different directions and categories, this is a new paradigm for me.
Simply put, FdW challenges the conventional view that morality is part of civilization, that morality is a 'veneer' over our animal core, which is generally assumed to be selfish and immoral. He rejects the view that mankind developed as individuals and then became socialites, requiring rules for co-existence. Rather, homo evolved as a social animal and started his career on Earth with a set of rules for social life. I.o.w., the whole question how a human society without a creator can have morality, is superfluous, baseless, a waste of energy.
On the way to this hypothesis, FdW gets into arguments with the 'selfish gene' theory and with the Dawkins direction of neo-Darwinism. My suspicion is, that this conflict is as useless as a goitre (as we say in German). I don't think that Dawkins really meant the gene to be literally 'selfish', hence let's drop this linguistic bickering. (However I am too lazy to look it up in Dawkins.)
Only 4 stars, not because it is not important, but because it remains below its potential. The discussion part is not always to the point.
I am tempted to give an extra star for the foto of Georgia admiring her own reflection in the camera lens. But maybe an Oscar is more appropriate?

4 out of 5 stars Welcome new perspectives on moral theorizing.......2007-09-06

This book is an interesting confrontation between primate research and professional moral philosophers. The aim is to discuss De Waal's attack on `veneer theory', the idea that moral behaviour is not really grounded in our nature but just a thin cultural overlay, but the discussion quickly becomes way more general.
In fact, we quickly see familiar dividing lines appear. Some, like Korsgaard, see morality as based on reason alone, and therefore purely human. Others, like De Waal, see it as primarily based on inborn capacities like empathy, and maintain that we share a lot of our morality with primates.
The truth is probably somewhere in between. Actually almost all the contributors confirm this in some way, but this is obscured by the fact that the authors do not seem to be able to agree on the meaning on the word`morality'.

Semantic confusion and untenable extremes: Nothing new in the world of discussions of morality then? What does make this book interesting, is that this time the discussions are informed by empirical evolutionary research, which means that even the philosophers have to keep their feet on the ground. Apart from the ape-stories being interesting to read, the result is a welcome new perspective on existing moral theories.

5 out of 5 stars Critically Important Research.......2007-08-25

Teleologically oriented theologians and pompous philosophers need to read this book. New empirical research offers dramatic insights as to the how's and why's of the bilogoical origins of human values and morality. The more this book is read and digested, the faster the phony televangelists will disappear from popular and uninformed culture.

4 out of 5 stars Excellent .......2007-07-29

I do not have the required background knowledge to really make a judgment as to the fundamental claim here i.e. that moral behavior, including decision-making is not an exclusively human prerogative but in fact is the natural condition of a wide variety of species for whom cooperatrive and and altruistic behavior can be collectively advantageous. De Waal's critique of what he calls 'veneer theory' the idea that human morality is a thin layer which comes over and above our fundamentally aggressive, selfish nature is I believe, even when one considers humans in isolation, quite convincing.
He brings certain evidence and examples to show that other species' outside the human, including such stereotypically cruel and mean creatures as wolves engage in mutually advantageous group behavior. The question however of the degree of conscious decision involved in this is one not really solved here. Clearly the human capacity for language- use and symbolic - communication extends not only modes of cooperation, but complexities in consciousness. One feels that deliberation and decision in human action work in ways other animals cannot come close to.

5 out of 5 stars Our hertitage deepens.......2007-06-10

Succinct, quotable, accessible and scholarly ( in the best sense!)- Dr De Waal never disappoints.
How Humans Evolved, Fourth Edition
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Excellent Text!
  • Best Textbook in a long time!
  • Excellent
  • Terrific introduction to the study of human evolution
  • Required textbook... but not bad reading
How Humans Evolved, Fourth Edition
Robert Boyd , and Joan B. Silk
Manufacturer: W. W. Norton
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

GeneralGeneral | Biology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Evolution | Science | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Science | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Evolution | Professional Science | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
SociobiologySociobiology | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
All TitlesAll Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
NonfictionNonfiction | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
ProfessionalProfessional | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
ScienceScience | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
Similar Items:
  1. Demonic Males: Apes and the Origins of Human Violence Demonic Males: Apes and the Origins of Human Violence
  2. Mother Nature: Maternal Instincts and How They Shape the Human Species Mother Nature: Maternal Instincts and How They Shape the Human Species
  3. The Origins of Virtue: Human Instincts and the Evolution of Cooperation The Origins of Virtue: Human Instincts and the Evolution of Cooperation
  4. The Complete World of Human Evolution The Complete World of Human Evolution
  5. Nisa: The Life and Words of a !Kung Woman Nisa: The Life and Words of a !Kung Woman

ASIN: 0393926281

Book Description

How Humans Evolved uses the broad perspective of behavioral ecology, drawing on Robert Boyd's expertise in evolutionary theory and Joan Silk's specialty in primate behavior in a uniquely integrative text

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Excellent Text!.......2007-10-12

This is a textbook that I actually enjoyed reading from cover to cover. It is an excellent introduction to evolution, primatology, and anthropology. Highly recommended for either the undergrad or the layman.

5 out of 5 stars Best Textbook in a long time!.......2007-09-21

This textbook perfectly outlines each chapter. The author states the important points before going into depth. If you find yourself reading a textbook for class and having to re-read over and over again because you keep zoning out, this book really helps. I found it to be very interesting and a helpful study tool.

5 out of 5 stars Excellent.......2007-05-06

Presents material in an interesting, concise, and easy-to-read format - excellent choice for biological/physical anthropology students!

5 out of 5 stars Terrific introduction to the study of human evolution.......2007-03-18

This is a terrific introduction (a textbook) to human evolution. It is written in a very accessible fashion--not just students but those in the larger public interested in the mechanism and products of human evolution will find this a useful volume.

The first part, of course, focuses on the evolutionary process, with a nice introduction to adaptation by natural selection and to genetics. Other introductory chapters introduce readers to the nature of species, phylogeny, and the synthetic theory of evolution. The discussion is well written and understandable. There are many examples to illustrate key points.

The next section explores primate evolution and behavior, to provide context for understanding human evolution and behavior. The chapter on the evolution of primate social behavior is especially helpful. Next, the authors take a look at the evolutionary lineage of humans, from primates to early hominids, to the genus Homo, to Homo sapiens. The text goes on to examine how language evolved, as well as evolution in modern humans (e.g., genetic diversity, the human life cycle, human behavior, and mate choice and parenting).

All in all, a nice introduction to the study of human evolution. Well worth taking a look at. . . .

4 out of 5 stars Required textbook... but not bad reading.......2007-02-03

The book's authors cover some difficult material with excellent exapmles to help clarify main points. As far as a textbook goes, this was decent reading.
Biological Anthropology
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Biological Anthropology
    Michael Alan Park
    Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill Humanities/Social Sciences/Languages
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Paperback

    CulturalCultural | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
    PhysicalPhysical | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
    SociobiologySociobiology | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
    GeneralGeneral | Sociology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
    MammalsMammals | Animals | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
    GeneralGeneral | Biology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
    All TitlesAll Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
    NonfictionNonfiction | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
    ScienceScience | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
    Similar Items:
    1. Biological Anthropology: An Introductory Reader Biological Anthropology: An Introductory Reader
    2. Biological Anthropology: An Introductory Reader Biological Anthropology: An Introductory Reader
    3. Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 07/08 (Annual Editions : Physical  Anthropology) Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 07/08 (Annual Editions : Physical Anthropology)
    4. Lab Manual and Workbook for Physical Anthropology Lab Manual and Workbook for Physical Anthropology
    5. Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 06/07 (Annual Editions : Physical  Anthropology) Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 06/07 (Annual Editions : Physical Anthropology)

    ASIN: 0073530972

    Book Description

    This concise introduction to biological anthropology discusses the core areas of the discipline within a unique framework modeled on the scientific method. The text emphasizes themes and theories: facts are presented as supportive evidence rather than dissociated pieces of information. Each chapter poses questions that get at the heart of the field, answers them, and then reexamines them in the same way that scientists generate and test hypotheses. Unlike all other brief biological anthropology texts, this is not an abridged version of a longer text. Its presentation is fluid, well integrated, and covers all the standard topics in a carefully managed level of detail. Well-paced explanations, an inviting tone, and examples of the everyday uses of biological anthropology make the text a pleasure to read.
    The Human Species: An Introduction to Biological Anthropology
    Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
    • Great book for students
    • Typical Ultra-Left Propaganda.
    • An ideal introductory text for students of human evolution.
    • Excellent academic introduction to human evolution
    The Human Species: An Introduction to Biological Anthropology
    John Relethford
    Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill Humanities/Social Sciences/Languages
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Paperback

    GeneralGeneral | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
    PhysicalPhysical | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
    SociobiologySociobiology | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
    GeneralGeneral | Sociology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
    All TitlesAll Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
    NonfictionNonfiction | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
    Similar Items:
    1. Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 07/08 (Annual Editions : Physical  Anthropology) Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 07/08 (Annual Editions : Physical Anthropology)
    2. What It Means to Be 98% Chimpanzee: Apes, People, and Their Genes What It Means to Be 98% Chimpanzee: Apes, People, and Their Genes
    3. Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 06/07 (Annual Editions : Physical  Anthropology) Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 06/07 (Annual Editions : Physical Anthropology)
    4. Biological Anthropology: An Introductory Reader Biological Anthropology: An Introductory Reader
    5. The Human Evolution Coloring Book, 2e (HarperCollins Coloring Books (Not Childrens)) The Human Evolution Coloring Book, 2e (HarperCollins Coloring Books (Not Childrens))

    ASIN: 0073105759

    Book Description

    Now in full color, this biological anthropology text presents balanced coverage of the major components of the field: genetics and evolutionary theory, human biological variation, primate biology and behavior, and human evolution. The relationship between biology and culture is a major focus throughout the text, and the emphasis is on the human species within the primate order: discussions of mammals and nonhuman primates continually refer back to their potential relevance for understanding the human species. The text contains material often neglected in introductory texts, such as discussions of adaptation, human health and disease and demography, and human growth.

    Customer Reviews:

    4 out of 5 stars Great book for students.......2007-05-18

    This book was required for my Intro to Anthropology class. It was easy to read and follow. Since the class was a required general education class, I had to go into the class with an open mind about what I was required to learn. I did not feel as if the book was attempting to influence my thoughts or beliefs. The book is organized effeciently and productively. I did not get bored reading it.

    1 out of 5 stars Typical Ultra-Left Propaganda........2004-12-28

    Much of the focus in this book centers on two issues:

    1) There are no such thing as human "races,"

    and 2) Humans evolved from apes and "creation scientists" and "intelligent design" theorists are boogie-men up to no good.

    The book totally ignores research pointing to the contrary regarding the differences between human races and does not go into any detail why there are different ones. Races formed or "evolved" in adaptation to their environments and created different cultures to express themselves and survive in their environments to the best of their ability. Humans were created by God and this book only shows how difficult the fossil record is to interpret. It is unknown how many different hominids existed and to what species each fossil belonged and what specimins constitute "man" or "Homo sapiens sapiens" or not. If anybody is interested in how ultra-left political ideals influence texbook writing and distribution look no further than this tome.

    5 out of 5 stars An ideal introductory text for students of human evolution........2000-09-05

    Now in a fully updated fourth edition, John Relethford's The Human Species: An Introduction To Biological Anthropology is divided into three major sections: Evolution and Diversity in Human Populations; Our Place in Nature; and Human Evolution. Updated coverage of the fossil record focuses on broad general groups of early hominids; principles of miroevolution show shown as they apply to the modern human species; the concept of race is thoroughly discussed from a biological and evolutionary perspective; and new interpretations of the number of species of early Homo and Neanderthal DNA are explored. The Human Species is an ideal introductory text for students of anthropology, and informative reading for any non-specialist general reader with an interest in the contemporary status of research in human evolution today.

    4 out of 5 stars Excellent academic introduction to human evolution.......1999-04-01

    I am an archaeology professor who has used this book as a text in my human origins class. No, it is not a mystery-scifi read - but it does a quite decent job with a difficult topic.
    The History and Geography of Human Genes
    Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
    • What I got out of this book
    • Great book, if you can get through it...
    • History and Geography of Homan Genes
    • A review of everything
    • Good Book, but Martel is Wrong
    The History and Geography of Human Genes
    Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza , Paolo Menozzi , and Alberto Piazza
    Manufacturer: Princeton University Press
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Hardcover

    GeneralGeneral | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
    PhysicalPhysical | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
    SociobiologySociobiology | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
    GeneticsGenetics | Evolution | Science | Subjects | Books
    GeneralGeneral | Evolution | Science | Subjects | Books
    GeneralGeneral | Science | Subjects | Books
    Natural HistoryNatural History | Nature & Ecology | Science | Subjects | Books
    GeneticsGenetics | Basic Science | Medicine | Subjects | Books
    GeneticsGenetics | Evolution | Professional Science | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
    GeneticsGenetics | Basic Sciences | Medical | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
    All TitlesAll Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
    MedicineMedicine | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
    NonfictionNonfiction | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
    ProfessionalProfessional | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
    ScienceScience | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
    Similar Items:
    1. Genes, Peoples, and Languages Genes, Peoples, and Languages
    2. The Great Human Diasporas: The History of Diversity and Evolution (Helix Books) The Great Human Diasporas: The History of Diversity and Evolution (Helix Books)
    3. The Journey of Man: A Genetic Odyssey The Journey of Man: A Genetic Odyssey
    4. Deep Ancestry: Inside the Genographic Project Deep Ancestry: Inside the Genographic Project
    5. Mapping Human History: Genes, Race, and Our Common Origins Mapping Human History: Genes, Race, and Our Common Origins

    ASIN: 0691087504

    Book Description

    L. Luca Cavalli-Sforza and his collaborators Paolo Menozzi and Alberto Piazza have devoted fourteen years to one of the most compelling scientific projects of our time: the reconstruction of where human populations originated and the paths by which they spread throughout the world. In this volume, the culmination of their research, the authors explain their pathbreaking use of genetic data, which they integrate with insights from geography, ecology, archaeology, physical anthropology, and linguistics to create the first full-scale account of human evolution as it occurred across all continents. This interdisciplinary approach enables them to address a wide range of issues that continue to incite debate: the timing of the first appearance of our species, the problem of African origins and the significance of work recently done on mitochondrial DNA and the popular notion of an "African Eve," the controversy pertaining to the peopling of the Americas, and the reason for the presence of non-Indo-European languages--Basque, Finnish, and Hungarian--in Europe.

    The authors reconstruct the history of our evolution by focusing on genetic divergence among human groups. Using genetic information accumulated over the last fifty years, they examined over 110 different inherited traits, such as blood types, HLA factors, proteins, and DNA markers, in over eighteen hundred, primarily aboriginal, populations. By mapping the worldwide geographic distribution of the genes, the scientists are now able to chart migrations and, in exploring genetic distance, devise a clock by which to date evolutionary history: the longer two populations are separated, the greater their genetic difference should be. This volume highlights the authors' contributions to genetic geography, particularly their technique for making geographic maps of gene frequencies and their synthetic method of detecting ancient migrations, as for example the migration of Neolithic farmers from the Middle East toward Europe, West Asia, and North Africa.

    Beginning with an explanation of their major sources of data and concepts, the authors give an interdisciplinary account of human evolution at the world level. Chapters are then devoted to evolution on single continents and include analyses of genetic data and how these data relate to geographic, ecological, archaeological, anthropological, and linguistic information. Comprising a wide range of viewpoints, a vast store of new and recent information on genetics, and a generous supply of visual elements, including 522 geographic maps, this book is a unique source of facts and a catalyst for further debate and research.

    Customer Reviews:

    4 out of 5 stars What I got out of this book.......2005-05-07

    I learned who the people closest genetically to Basques are. The French! Makes sense the French have a a portion of Basque country in their political nation of France. I'm of French background myself. French-Canadian that is.

    5 out of 5 stars Great book, if you can get through it..........2005-04-06

    This book is very hard to get through as someone with no backing in genetics or biology, but it is very interesting, and it shows how we humans are really just like a couple thousand breeds of dogs, all slightly different, but with the same ancestor, our distant ancestor though was probably no wolf. It is interesting when they mention the little unexplainable historical abnormalities (african genes and caucasian genes in latin american indigenous populations, perhaps?) that they see in the genes of some groups of humans.

    I allmost want to dedicate my life to genetics because of all the damn interesting knowledge that could be spawned from the information presented by the authors of this book. If you know anyone studying in this field, you must give them this book for christmas or something, please.

    It is now my theory that human language has been the driving force behind human evolution, how often do two parents without a common language stay together 18+ years to raise a family? Just think about that, and it explains the human diaspora pretty well. Humans very rarely mate outside of their language group. You have a group of people in africa that speak the same language, then later on, two languages develop, or three or four, these people migrate off, and form a tribe, this tribe doesnt mate with other tribes because romance and love just dont work without a common language. Tribal names and language names are usually connected anyway, and this is why. When you read this book, you need to view humanity as an animal group pretty much, its very objective without any feeling. Human beings are creatures of communication, communication has driven our evolution forward. Writing started cities, before even that farming started widespread language and trading. It seems that the natural path this should take is more communication, but most people dont like to talk, fewer like to read and write, though that is our path of destiny as humans. The average american spends more money on lottery tickets every year than books. TV is far too widespread now, the love for books is dying, though civilization has allways been built upon the libraries of past civilizations, the histories of the victors.

    Anyway,
    The things that could be done if these scientists who wrote this book could get together to do research with the people that are at the tip of the spear in supercomputer research...

    If you want to have some mental fun/anguish, then this book should be read in conjunction with 'Forbidden Archaeology' by Michael Cremo.

    Try it =)

    Note that this book is not made for the layman, but if you are a layman, and have a biology textbook laying around, you can get through it no problem.

    Any one who is thinking of reading this book, or anyone who has should really do a bit of research on National Geographic's Genographic project that is collecting genetic information all over the world right now (the same migratory route tracing that is in this book) and building a huge database...The cool thing though is that you can send National Geographic $100, and they will send you a kit, you send a cheek swab back, and later on, they tell you everything that you ever wanted to know about your ancestors, and their migratory routes, back 60,000 years...
    The database is also building daily, so the information that you will first get about your genes will get more comprehensive as time goes on, and more genetic samples are collected from 10's or 100's of thousands of people all over the planet...
    Anyone who reads this book actually MUST do a google search on this National Geographic Genographic Project, right now =)

    5 out of 5 stars History and Geography of Homan Genes.......2004-06-09

    This work, in hardback, is written with the advanced researcher in mind. The author is world famous for his pioneering efforts in identifying traits in particular traits in ethnic groups with unique genetic markers. The color plates in the index section can be helpful to those who know how to intrepret them.
    It's a scholarly treatment of a highly technical subject and a thorough one as well. This is ground-breaking work collected from many samples and analyzed in detail. I think this should be required reading for college students in the field of genetic research.

    5 out of 5 stars A review of everything.......2003-06-17

    Cavalli-Sforza presents the nearest approximation possible to the correlation of all measurable human genes, markers and attributes. You might think of the work as the "unified field theory" for evloutionary biology, culture and linguistics.

    While the heft even of the abridged version is imposing, the component parts are manageable for those who already have basic statistical knowledge or who are willing to pay attention to the author's explanations. The world's populations are addressed in geographic chunks, and then at various appropriate points, more general conclusions drawn from the pieces.

    Given the advances in genetic research acheived since publication, the model may ultimately prove more valuable than the particular contents...but for this decade the contents are fascinating.

    4 out of 5 stars Good Book, but Martel is Wrong.......2003-04-11

    The book provided a great deal of information about genetic distances and the relationships between populations. However, Mr. Martel's review includes lies and these lies must be addressed. First of all, the native North Africans were not "very blonde" or "nordic". In fact, the ORIGINAL population was as black as their rock art depictions of themselves (which just so happen to span the Sahara and date back nearly 10000yrs). Many of these Ancient Saharans were, however, completely abosorbed by an incoming of migrants from the Middle East. Perhaps these migrants are the people Mr. Martel is speaking of??? At any rate, with the dessication of the Sahara, most of the original Saharans (blacks) migrated South into The Sudan. In fact, they can still be found in West Africa today. They (especially the Fulani and Dogon) can be recognized in person as easily as they can be recognized in the Ancient Saharan depictions drawn by their ancestors.

    Thus, despite Mr. Martel's comments to the contrary, the admixture seen in North Africans today is not so much the result of slaves (modern admixture) as it is the result of both modern admixture as well as ancient admixture - admixture which took place LONG before the Arabs ventured anywhere near the region. As for the Egyptians, they were from the same stock as the rest of North Africa and they almost always depicted themselves as brown and intermediate between and separate from both the white people of the North (Europe), the light skinned Semites (Middle East), and the darker, more Sudanese people of the South (Nubia).

    Mr. Martel is not completely wrong in so far as SOME of these Middle Eastern migrants had blonde hair and light eyes (a few individual Lybians were depicted this way). But, such features were most probably seen at the same rate theyre seen in Middle Easterners and North Africans today. Neither people, however, are "Nordics", and to assume they descend from Nordics based on hair color alone is ridiculous. Blondism occurs in Aborigines... are we to believe they descend from Nordics as well? Somehow, I think not.
    Essentials of Physical Anthropology (with InfoTrac )
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Essentials of Physical Anthropology (with InfoTrac )
      Robert Jurmain , Lynn Kilgore , and Wenda Trevathan
      Manufacturer: Wadsworth Publishing
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Paperback

      GeneralGeneral | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
      SociobiologySociobiology | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Sociology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
      All TitlesAll Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
      NonfictionNonfiction | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
      Similar Items:
      1. Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 07/08 (Annual Editions : Physical  Anthropology) Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 07/08 (Annual Editions : Physical Anthropology)
      2. Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 06/07 (Annual Editions : Physical  Anthropology) Annual Editions: Physical Anthropology 06/07 (Annual Editions : Physical Anthropology)
      3. Lab Manual and Workbook for Physical Anthropology Lab Manual and Workbook for Physical Anthropology
      4. The Human Evolution Coloring Book, 2e (HarperCollins Coloring Books (Not Childrens)) The Human Evolution Coloring Book, 2e (HarperCollins Coloring Books (Not Childrens))
      5. Biological Anthropology: An Introductory Reader Biological Anthropology: An Introductory Reader

      Accessories:
      1. Basic Genetics for Anthropology CD-ROM: Principles and Applications (Stand Alone Version) for Jurmain/Kilgore/Trevathan's Introduction to Physical Anthropology, 10th Basic Genetics for Anthropology CD-ROM: Principles and Applications (Stand Alone Version) for Jurmain/Kilgore/Trevathan's Introduction to Physical Anthropology, 10th

      ASIN: 0495030619

      Book Description

      This mainstream, four-color physical anthropology text is the best selling text in the brief physical anthropology market. The text presents a balanced, thorough introduction to the field of physical anthropology that also reflects the current state of the field. The heredity and evolution chapters (Chapters 1-5) have been expanded and updated to reflect the tremendous advances of molecular biology in all phases of physical anthropology, and the hominid evolution chapters (Chapters 8-11) have been reorganized and reinterpreted to reflect current academic thought springing from recent major finds. To make the text more accessible, the Sixth Edition includes many new visuals that, together with the many charts, helpful tables, multimedia, and engaging writing style, will bring the study of physical anthropology to life for today's student.
      The Anthropology of Language: An Introduction to Linguistic Anthropology
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        The Anthropology of Language: An Introduction to Linguistic Anthropology
        Harriet Joseph Ottenheimer
        Manufacturer: Wadsworth Publishing
        ProductGroup: Book
        Binding: Paperback

        GeneralGeneral | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
        SociobiologySociobiology | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
        GeneralGeneral | Sociology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
        All TitlesAll Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
        NonfictionNonfiction | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
        Similar Items:
        1. Linguistic Anthropology Workbook and Reader Linguistic Anthropology Workbook and Reader
        2. The Trobrianders of Papua New Guinea (Case Studies in Cultural Anthropology) The Trobrianders of Papua New Guinea (Case Studies in Cultural Anthropology)
        3. Cultural Anthropology with Living Anthropology Student CD Cultural Anthropology with Living Anthropology Student CD
        4. Language Shock: Understanding The Culture Of Conversation Language Shock: Understanding The Culture Of Conversation
        5. Portraits of 'the Whiteman': Linguistic Play and Cultural Symbols among the Western Apache Portraits of 'the Whiteman': Linguistic Play and Cultural Symbols among the Western Apache

        ASIN: 0534594360

        Book Description

        This text provides an introduction to the field of linguistic anthropology, which appeals to undergraduates from a wide variety of fields and at a wide variety of levels, from freshmen to seniors. This text comes with access to a companion website designed to make the intersection of linguistics and anthropology accessible and interesting to undergraduate students. In addition to THE ANTHROPOLOGY OF LANGUAGE, Harriet Ottenheimer has also creating a workbook/reader that is a perfect bundle option for this text. See the supplement section for details.
        The Politics of Life Itself: Biomedicine, Power, and Subjectivity in the Twenty-First Century (In-formation)
        Average customer rating: Not rated
          The Politics of Life Itself: Biomedicine, Power, and Subjectivity in the Twenty-First Century (In-formation)
          Nikolas Rose
          Manufacturer: Princeton University Press
          ProductGroup: Book
          Binding: Paperback

          GeneralGeneral | Philosophy | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
          ModernModern | Philosophy | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
          GeneralGeneral | Sociology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
          BiotechnologyBiotechnology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
          BiotechnologyBiotechnology | Bioengineering | Engineering | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
          BiotechnologyBiotechnology | Biological Sciences | Professional Science | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
          Similar Items:
          1. Biocapital: The Constitution of Postgenomic Life Biocapital: The Constitution of Postgenomic Life
          2. Security, Territory, Population (Lectures at the College De France) Security, Territory, Population (Lectures at the College De France)
          3. Tissue Economies: Blood, Organs, and Cell Lines in Late Capitalism (Science and Cultural Theory) Tissue Economies: Blood, Organs, and Cell Lines in Late Capitalism (Science and Cultural Theory)
          4. Neoliberalism as Exception: Mutations in Citizenship and Sovereignty Neoliberalism as Exception: Mutations in Citizenship and Sovereignty
          5. Born and Made: An Ethnography of Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (In-formation) Born and Made: An Ethnography of Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (In-formation)

          ASIN: 0691121915

          Book Description

          For centuries, medicine aimed to treat abnormalities. But today normality itself is open to medical modification. Equipped with a new molecular understanding of bodies and minds, and new techniques for manipulating basic life processes at the level of molecules, cells, and genes, medicine now seeks to manage human vital processes. The Politics of Life Itself offers a much-needed examination of recent developments in the life sciences and biomedicine that have led to the widespread politicization of medicine, human life, and biotechnology.

          Avoiding the hype of popular science and the pessimism of most social science, Nikolas Rose analyzes contemporary molecular biopolitics, examining developments in genomics, neuroscience, pharmacology, and psychopharmacology and the ways they have affected racial politics, crime control, and psychiatry. Rose analyzes the transformation of biomedicine from the practice of healing to the government of life; the new emphasis on treating disease susceptibilities rather than disease; the shift in our understanding of the patient; the emergence of new forms of medical activism; the rise of biocapital; and the mutations in biopower. He concludes that these developments have profound consequences for who we think we are, and who we want to be.

          Books:

          1. Introduction to Quantum Mechanics (2nd Edition)
          2. Just Gus: A Rescued Dog and the Woman He Loved
          3. Knowledge Representation: Logical, Philosophical, and Computational Foundations: Logical, Philosophical, and Computational Foundations
          4. Memory and Emotion: The Making of Lasting Memories
          5. Methods, Standards, & Work Design
          6. Mysteries of the Middle Ages: The Rise of Feminism, Science, and Art from the Cults of Catholic Europe
          7. Navigating the Badlands: Thriving in the Decade of Radical Transformation
          8. New Perspectives on Human Sacrifice and Ritual Body Treatments in Ancient Maya Society (Interdisciplinary Contributions to Archaeology)
          9. No Other Way Out: State and Revolutionary Movements, 1945-1991 (Cambridge Studies in Comparative Politics)
          10. Operations Research: An Introduction (8th Edition)

          Books Index

          Books Home

          Recommended Books

          1. Just Listen
          2. History: Fiction or Science
          3. Colonel Chabert
          4. EARTHLY DELIGHTS
          5. Goodnight Moon
          6. Finite Mathematics for Business Economics, Life Sciences and Social Sciences
          7. Handbook Of Applied Cryptography
          8. The Klamath Knot: Explorations of Myth and Evolution, Twentieth Anniversary Edition
          9. Elizabeth Murray: A Woman's Pursuit of Independence in Eighteenth-Century America
          10. Somalia on $5 a Day: A soldier's Story