How biological anthropologists have approached their subject of study has changed substantially since the discipline’s inception. Anthropology has its roots in colonial and racist enterprises of the 19th century. The construction of informed consent, the development of a global research community, and changing notions of evolution have all positively reshaped how researchers approach their work. And yet, in spite of these changes, many practices in scientific anthropology continue to make some narratives visible while silencing others. In this course, we will focus on examples drawn from human skeletal and genetic analyses, relying heavily on Indigenous critique of and within the discipline. How do we produce scientific knowledge about human evolutionary past? Who gets to ask and answer the questions? What role do institutions play in privileging some voices and approaches over others?

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 20

Prerequisites: None

Instructor: Van Arsdale

Distribution Requirements: SBA - Social and Behavioral Analysis

Typical Periods Offered: Every three years

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Not Offered

Notes: