Course Description
This course focuses on the evolution of human and nonhuman primate and human mental abilities and brains. Discussions of evolutionary principles, divergent scientific philosophies with respect to the nature of animal versus human minds, and diverse approaches to the study of animal behavior set the stage.
Subject matter then proceeds to a focus on comparative and developmental aspects of human and primate brains, social intelligence, tool use, culture, language, and self-awareness. The archaeological and fossil records of human evolution, including methods of determining fossil intellectual capacities, form the substance of the final section of the course. Throughout the course, major emphasis is placed on ongoing theoretical debates with respect to such issues as qualitative versus quantitative distinctions between human and animal minds, the importance of absolute versus relative brain size, the social and ecological circumstances that may have selected for higher intellectual capacities, and the relative intelligence of Neanderthals and other fossil hominids.
The course is intended for students interested in primate neuroscience.
Lectures and assigned readings from the current literature will be presented on each topic. Ample time will be offered during each class for active student discussion.
Course Requirements
Students are expected to attend all lectures and class discussions. Each student will write an orally present two discussion papers on topics of their choosing related to brain and cognitive evolution.� Grades will be based on student papers and presentations.
Required Textbook
Tomasello, M. and J. Call (1997) Primate Cognition. Oxford, Oxford University Press.
Location & Contact
6431 Fannin Street,
Houston, Texas 77030
PO Box 20708,
Houston, Texas 77225
713.500.4472
