Prehistoric Cultures
Course Summary

• is a survey course focusing on the origin and development of extinct and living human beings and their immediate predecessors.
  
  
• Prehistoric Cultures broadly explores the nature, origin, and development of humans and other hominids from their earliest beginnings to the advent of ancient civilizations
  
  
  • Thus, topically it fits between the "Evolution" course in biology (Bio 4801), the first "Ancient Civilization" courses in Classical Heritage Track in Cultural Studies (CSt 1004— From Classical Antiquity to Medieval Culture), and the "Introduction to Archaeology" course in Anthropology (Anth 1612)

• provides an introduction to primate studies, focusing on the great apes
  
  
  • chimpanzees, orangutans, and gorillas

• reviews topics such as:
  
  
  • new discoveries
  • history of prehistory
  • archaeology /
    archaeological methods /
    archaeological field work opportunities
  • physical anthropology
  • stone tool making
  • hunting and gathering
  • development of bipedal walking,
    the grasping hand,
    and stereoscopic vision
  • brain development
  • language and speech development
  • other prehistoric cultural adaptations
  • Paleo-Psychology
  • controversial theories
  • timelines of prehistory
  • WorldWide Web Prehistory Sites

• discusses the growth and differentiation of cultures from their beginnings to the earliest stages of ancient civilizations

• is in Liberal Education Category 7— Historical and Philosophical Foundations.

Courses in Category 7 focus on the study of societies and / or cultures and the analysis of basic philosophical issues and traditions.

Liberal education courses are intended to add breadth to your education. Prehistoric Cultures deals with human history and prehistory, and their influence on contemporary life. Specific liberal education objectives are to: (a) encourage you to think critically about issues; (b) provide experience in the analytic methods of study used in anthropology, archaeology, paleontology, and primatology; (c) provide an awareness of historical and prehistorical traditions, social issues, and diverse cultural values; and, (d) introduce you to knowledge important for an active and socially responsible citizen.

• also meets the international perspective requirement as it deals with the emergence and development of human life in several locations in the world.
  
  

  The International perspective increases students' awareness and understanding of issues or topics from an international or global perspective, examining interdependencies or differences that exist in our world. These courses focus on at least one of the following topics: (1) issues or problems which transcend national boundaries; (2) cultural, political, economic, or other interdependencies; (3) significant differences across national or broad cultural boundaries, or, (4) an in-depth study of some aspect of one or more nations or cultures outside of the United States.

• 4 semester credits

• A - F grading option only
  
  
• Course Requirements
  
  
• Week 01 Day 01