Courses
The Origins and Evolution of Cognition |
This course explores the fundamental mechanisms of cognition by using a comparative framework that examines non-human primates, humans in different cultures, and other animal species (e.g. elephants, birds, bees, cetaceans). Throughout the course, students examine the history of comparative cognition research and its contributions to our knowledge of the evolution of cognition. Students are exposed to seminal theoretical works as well as recent research articles that cover the variety of methods used in both captivity and the field. Critically, this course considers the practical importance of cognitive abilities in shaping the adaptive behavior that helps non-human primates (and human ancestors) disentangle social and ecological problems. Lectures take a discussion-based format where students are encouraged to articulate the theoretical implications of research findings and the significance of these findings for human evolution.
Click for course outline. |
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This course offers an introduction to the evolution of language and primate communication systems using the framework of biological anthropology. Lectures are structured to gradually introduce students to possible parallels and differences between non-human primate and human communication over the course of the term, culminating in a discussion of contemporary topics and future directions of research. Click for course outline. |