Human evolution – the fossil evidence 1300-WECSK-OG
The following subjects will be presented: position of hominids on the phylogenetical tree of the primates; bipedality as a distinguishing hominid feature; characteristics of the earliest hominids, including australopithecines and Paranthropus; generally accepted and non-standard theories on the early human evolution, including the “Aquatic ape” hypothesis; problem of the systematic position of “Homo” habilis; migrations and diversity of Homo erectus and its descendants; characteristics and relationships of the Neanderthal Man; “Out of Africa” theory, palaeontological and genetic arguments; early technologies; Cro-Magnon culture and art; development of brain; behaviour, consciousness, speech and language of the primitive humans.
Course coordinators
Type of course
Prerequisites (description)
Learning outcomes
Student receives the insight in the biological origin and early evolution of humans. He knows the most important palaeontological and archaeological records documenting the history of hominids, their biological and technological development and the leading theories concerning this subject. He can actively take part in the discussion concerning the relation between humans and the nature. He obtains theoretical basis for the “Human origin and evolution” proseminar in the summer semester.
Assessment criteria
The basic criteria are: presence at the lecture and the short written essay.
Practical placement
none