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 aren't 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 differences--as well as our similarities--teach
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 questions--and 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, you'll journey
deep into our prehistory where we begin to differentiate ourselves from
our primate relatives--and 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 humanity's future in space
Whether you're studying anthropology for school or just want to know
more about what makes us humans who we are, this is the perfect
introduction to humanity's past and present--and a clue to what we need
to build a better future.