Complete the internet module "The Long Foreground: Human Prehistory."
The Problem:
We often recognize the increasing size of the human brain (as compared to
earlier hominid species, for example) as a positive feature in the
development of the species. However, there are some serious problems
associated with this development:
A larger brain demands effective temperature control. The potential of
heat stroke, especially in the equatorial regions, became more serious.
A larger brain requires more energy. Modern human brains require that
about 25% of the body's metabolism be devoted to brain function, which is a
considerably higher percentage than that of other species.
A larger brain requires a diet richer in protein. Food sources with high
protein levels are often more difficult to procure.
It is difficult for mothers to give birth to large-brained children. A
biological means of addressing this problem is that development of the
human brain was retarded until after birth. Thus, humans could be born with
small heads and brains would grow after birth. This leads to new patterns
of maturation. Humans mature very slowly in comparison with other species.
Chimpanzees, for example, are mature-physically and intellectually--at
roughly 5 years; they learn little or nothing after that point. Humans, of
course, can learn throughout a lifetime.
Your writing assignment has two parts:
1. Given these 4 problems associated with larger brains, why have humans
not gone extinct? What strategies have developed to compensate for these
problems? You should focus your attention on cultural solutions rather than
biological ones. (1-2 paragraphs)
2. Conclude your assignment with a paragraph that links this discussion on
large brains to the definition of culture that you developed in your
previous assignment.
The Agricultural Revolution
Complete the internet module "The Agricultural Revolution."
Writing Assignment:
What new cultural developments did the shift towards agriculture allow (1
paragraph)?
You should submit
your assignment
using The Speakeasy Café
at http://morrison.wsu.edu/studio/
