BIO2062

Human ecology

Dr John Baldwin

4 points
* Two 1-hour lectures and one 2-hour practical (or equivalent)
* Second semester
* Clayton
* Prerequisites: none; no biological background is assumed

Objectives On completing this subject, students should be familiar with current theories on human origins and evolution; understand the complex relationship of humans to their environment and the factors that shape and regulate it; be aware of the critical roles of human population growth and resource exploitation in current environmental problems; have the knowledge to promote scientific debate in the wider community on important environmental issues.

Synopsis `Human ecology' deals with past and present relationships between humans and their environment. It focuses on the manner in which environmental factors influence human population dynamics and the ways in which humans exploit their environment for vital resources. The subject examines current theories and knowledge of human origins and evolution. The importance of a large brain, bipedalism, tool use and language is highlighted. The ecology of traditional peoples is discussed and compared with that of more technologically reliant societies. The effect of the agricultural revolution on human populations is explored. The demography of human populations is analysed by examining historical trends in age structure, life expectancy, mortality rates and the major environmental determinants of population growth rate. Policies, strategies and technologies that have been developed to regulate human population growth are reviewed. The process and consequences of urbanisation and the possibility of developing sustainable cities are examined. The subject concludes with an analysis of the prospects for humanity in the next century. Practical work complements material covered in lectures and includes a small project and a survey exercise.

Assessment Theory examination (1.5 hours): 50%
* Practical work (projects): 25%
* Tests: 25%

Recommended texts

Lewin R Human evolution: An illustrated introduction Blackwell, 1989