Anthropology of Domestication

Catalog description

Domestication is one of the most significant evolutionary turning points in prehistory resulting in novel plant and animal species, while also transforming human society. In this course, we will examine how archaeologists document domestication, and when and where domestication occurred. We will examine theoretical frameworks that archaeologists use to explain why humans first started farming. For example, did climate change push humans to abandon hunting/gathering in favor of farming? Was it overpopulation? Status competition marked by feasting? Case studies will focus on the origins of agriculture in southeast Asia, the Near East, Africa, eastern North America, Mesoamerica, and South America. Prerequisite: ANTH 167 or 236. Offered regularly.