Biological Anthropology Lecture Review

A set of flashcards covering key concepts and terms from the Biological Anthropology lecture notes.

What is Biological Anthropology?

The subfield of anthropology that studies humans as a biological species.

What is the fundamental theory that underpins Biological Anthropology?

The Theory of Evolution.

What are the three postulates of natural selection?

1) Individuals compete because resources are finite; 2) Individuals vary in ways that affect their ability to survive; 3) Some of this variation is heritable.

What does the term 'adaptation' refer to in the context of evolution?

A trait that is shaped by natural selection and allows the individual to survive and reproduce more successfully.

Who is considered the pre-eminent figure in evolutionary theory?

Charles Darwin.

What is the significance of the HMS Beagle in Darwin's life?

Darwin served as a naturalist aboard the HMS Beagle, which influenced many of his ideas about evolution.

What was the view of 'stasis' in the pre-Darwinian Western world?

All life forms were created by God and have not changed since their creation.

What is 'microevolution'?

Small genetic changes that occur within a species.

What is 'macroevolution'?

Change after many generations, such as the emergence of a new species.

What does 'binomial nomenclature' refer to?

The system of naming species using two names, for example, Homo sapiens.

How did Thomas Malthus influence Darwin's thinking?

Malthus's ideas on competition and population growth suggested that species compete for limited resources.

What is an example of a trait shaped by natural selection?

The beak depth in Galápagos finches, which varies based on available food resources.

What is disruptive selection?

A type of natural selection that can lead to two populations with distinct means.

What does the term 'adaptation by natural selection' mean in Darwin's theory?

It refers to the process through which species evolve through the differential survival and reproduction of individuals with advantageous traits.

What is the impact of the Scientific Revolution on evolutionary thought?

It challenged traditional views and increased awareness of biological diversity.

What is the significance of the 'peppered moth' example in studying natural selection?

It illustrates how variations in traits (color) can affect survival and reproduction in changing environments.

What does 'stabilizing selection' refer to?

Natural selection that preserves the status quo by eliminating extremes in a population.

Why is Lamarck often credited in discussions of evolution?

He was an early advocate of species evolution, proposing that traits could be acquired through use and passed to offspring.

Why did Darwin's theories face opposition at the time?

His ideas challenged the belief that evolution was the result of higher design, and he could not fully explain the mechanisms of heredity.

What is Jean-Baptiste Lamarck known for?

He proposed that environmental changes cause animals to adapt and that these changes can be passed onto their offspring.