two discussions two questions amp 3 questions each anthropology

discussion 1

Chapter 13 Reading

LINK-http://explorations.americananthro.org/

5 sentence minimum per response.

Before reading the chapter

1. What is your understanding of race and human variation? Do you think we are all the same or do you think there are difference between humans (not including sex)? Where did you learn about this – school, social media, friends, etc. ?

After reading the chapter

2. How is the genetic variation of the human species distributed worldwide?

3. The book mainly focuses on traits like skin color and lactose intolerance. What about the brain? Could mental attributes (say something like intelligence) also differ from human population to human population? If you don’t think so, explain why you think that evolution didn’t impact the brain (the brain is part of the body after all).

discussion 2

Chapter 14 Reading

LINK-http://explorations.americananthro.org/

5 Sentence minimum per response.

1. Detail at least two examples of how natural selection has influenced human variation. Specifically, what was the selective pressure that may have led to a preference for a specific trait and how is that trait related to an increased level of fitness?

2. What are some of the risks associated with pregnancy at high altitude? Compare and contrast the various genetic mutations of the indigenous Tibetan, Andean, and Ethiopian high-altitude populations. In your answer, specifically address the issue of pregnancy at high altitudes.

3. What is the relationship between the sickle cell mutation and the Plasmodium parasite? Would having the HbSA genotype still be advantageous in a region where such parasites are not common? Why or why not?