Anthropology For Dummies

Study the science of all of us Anthropology is the organized study of what makes humans human. It takes an objective step back to view homo sapiens as a species and ask questions like: Given our common characteristics, why arent all of us exactly the same? Why do people across the world have variable skin and hair color and so many inventive ways to say hello? And how can knowing the reasons behind our differencesas well as our similaritiesteach us useful lessons for the future? The updated edition of Anthropology For Dummies gives you a panoramic view of the fascinating fieldwork and theory that seeks to answer these questionsand helps you view the human world through impartial, anthropological eyes. Keeping the jargon to a minimum, Anthropology For Dummies explores the four main subdivisions of the discipline, from the adventurous Indiana Jones territory of archaeology and the hands-on biological insights provided by our physical nature to the studious book-cracking brainwork of cultural and linguistic investigation. Along the way, youll journey deep into our prehistory where we begin to differentiate ourselves from our primate relativesand then fast forward into the possibilities of centuries yet to come. Explore the history of anthropology and apply its methods Get a deep, scientific take on contemporary debates such as identity Excavate the human past through new fossil discoveries Peer into humanitys future in space Whether youre studying anthropology for school or just want to know more about what makes us humans who we are, this is the perfect introduction to humanitys past and presentand a clue to what we need to build a better future.