This chapter focuses on general issues of mammalian and primate taxonomy. The chapter begins with a brief introduction to methods of classification. Following this introduction, the chapter first considers humans as animals, chordates, vertebrates, and mammals. The chapter then moves on to consider primate characteristics. The final part of the chapter examines different approaches to the analysis of primate behavior (socioecology and sociobiology).
1. You should know some of the important ways in which humans adapt to stresses of physical and cultural environments, including physiologic, genetic, and cultural adaptations. |
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2. You should be aware of the different ways in which humans adapt to climate, including biological and cultural adaptations to heat, cold, and high altitude. |
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3. You should understand the factors shaping human nutritional needs and diets, and behavioral strategies such as hunting, gathering, and agriculture. |
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4. You should know some of the biological effects of modernization on diet and health, including malnutrition and obesity. |