Question 1

Making and using tools is not unique to hominids/humans but found in at least three other primate species.

Accepted Answer

Indeed, making and using tools is not a behavior exclusive to hominids (members of the human family tree, including extinct species closely related to humans). Research has shown that at least three other primate species exhibit tool use and even tool-making behaviors. 
1. **Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)**: Chimpanzees are well-known for their tool use and have been observed using sticks to fish for termites, using stones to crack nuts, and even shaping sticks to create more effective tools for specific tasks. They are capable of a level of planning and foresight in their tool use, which was once thought to be a uniquely human trait.
2. **Bonobos (Pan paniscus)**: Bonobos, who are closely related to chimpanzees, also use tools in the wild, although they are not as prolific tool users as chimpanzees. They have been observed using branches to facilitate foraging or to create a simple shelter.
3. **Capuchin monkeys (Cebus spp.)**: Capuchins are known for their use of rocks to crack open nuts and seeds, which requires them to understand the concept of using an external object to achieve a goal. They have also been seen using sticks to dig, probe for food, and even as a weapon or a tool for social displays.
4. **Orangutans (Pongo spp.)**: Orangutans have been observed using tools in the wild, such as sticks to extract insects or seeds from hard-to-reach places, and leaves as gloves or napkins. They are also known to use branches to test water depth or as a bridge to cross water bodies.
These examples show that the ability to use and make tools is not unique to humans and is found in various forms across different primate species. This behavior is likely linked to the cognitive abilities of primates, including problem-solving and the understanding of cause and effect. Tool use in primates is a subject of great interest in the study of evolution and animal cognition, as it provides insights into the development of intelligence and culture in the animal kingdom.

Question 2

Speech probably evolved from language in a single event.

Accepted Answer

The statement "Speech probably evolved from language in a single event" is not consistent with the current understanding of the evolution of language and speech among scientists. Language and speech are complex processes that likely evolved over a long period of time through gradual modifications rather than a single event. 
Language is a system of communication that involves the use of words in a structured and conventional way. Speech, on the other hand, refers to the expression of language through vocal sounds. While speech is one modality of language, language can also be expressed through other means such as writing or sign language.
The evolution of language and speech is a topic of much debate and research among linguists, anthropologists, and evolutionary biologists. The prevailing view is that language and speech evolved through a series of incremental steps and adaptations that provided selective advantages to early humans. These adaptations likely included changes in the anatomy and physiology of the vocal tract, the development of complex cognitive abilities to process and produce language, and the social need for more effective communication.
There is no fossil record of language, so much of what we understand about its evolution comes from studying the anatomy of early hominids, the development of language in children, and the structure of languages themselves. The evolution of language and speech is thought to have been influenced by a variety of factors, including social organization, tool use, and dietary changes that may have affected the structure of the mouth and throat.
In summary, speech did not evolve from language in a single event; rather, both language and speech likely developed through a long and complex evolutionary process involving multiple factors and stages.

Question 3

The authors of this book conclude there is no single factor that made humans human.

Accepted Answer

The authors of the book in question appear to argue that the evolution of humans cannot be attributed to a single factor or event. Instead, they suggest that a complex interplay of various elements contributed to the development of the unique traits that characterize humanity. These factors could include biological evolution, environmental changes, the development of language and culture, technological innovation, and social dynamics, among others. 
The idea that there is no single factor that made humans human reflects the understanding that human evolution is a multifaceted process. It acknowledges that our species, Homo sapiens, has undergone a long and intricate journey of adaptation and change. This perspective is supported by evidence from various scientific fields, including anthropology, genetics, paleontology, and archaeology.
By recognizing the complexity of human evolution, the authors likely emphasize the importance of a holistic approach to understanding our past. This approach considers the interconnections between different aspects of human life and the ways in which they have influenced one another over time. It also allows for a more nuanced appreciation of the diversity and adaptability that have been key to the survival and success of our species.

Question 4

Bipedalism occurred in stages, not in one single event.

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Question 5

Early hominids and chimpanzees probably had the same brain size.

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Question 6

Bipedalism, dentition, and brain size evolution all can be seen as chronologically concordant.

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Question 7

The sequence of stone tools is: chopper, core and flake, blade.

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Question 8

Your authors conclude the word "inheritance" should be used only in connection with biological evolution.

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Question 9

Biological change is slow because it adheres to Mendelian genetics but cultural change can be fast because it is Lamarckian in mode.

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Question 10

The authors of this book conclude there are enough similarities between biological and cultural evolution to call them as a single unit "biocultural evolution."

Accepted Answer

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Question 11

What made humans human?
A) bipedalism
B) big brains and intelligence
C) tool manufacturing
D) all of the above

Accepted Answer

The characteristics that made humans human are multifaceted and include a combination of evolutionary traits. 
A) Bipedalism: The ability to walk upright on two legs is a defining characteristic of hominins, the evolutionary group that includes modern humans and our ancestors. Bipedalism freed up the hands for manipulating objects, which had significant implications for tool use, and it also allowed for greater endurance and the ability to cover long distances.
B) Big brains and intelligence: Humans have significantly larger brains relative to body size than most other animals, and this increase in brain size is associated with higher intelligence, complex social behavior, and the development of language. The cognitive abilities of humans have allowed for abstract thinking, planning, problem-solving, and the creation of complex societies.
C) Tool manufacturing: The use of tools is not unique to humans, but the sophistication and variety of tools that humans have developed are unparalleled. Early stone tools evolved into more complex instruments, and the ability to create and use tools has been a crucial part of human survival and advancement.
These factors, along with others such as the development of language and complex social structures, have all contributed to what makes humans distinct as a species.

Question 12

Intelligence helped make us human. What kind of problems did more intelligence allow us to solve?
A) coping with predators
B) general cognitive ability
C) coping with environmental change
D) getting better quality food

Accepted Answer

Intelligence has played a crucial role in the evolution of humans, enabling our ancestors to solve a variety of complex problems that contributed to our survival and development as a species. Here's how intelligence helped us address each of the issues listed:
A) Coping with predators: Greater intelligence allowed early humans to develop strategies for avoiding predators, such as creating shelters, using tools as weapons, and working cooperatively in groups to defend themselves. This also included the ability to anticipate predator behavior and create early warning systems, such as alarms or lookout posts.
B) General cognitive ability: Enhanced cognitive abilities facilitated the development of language, abstract thinking, problem-solving skills, and the capacity to plan for the future. This general cognitive ability allowed humans to innovate, create complex social structures, and transmit knowledge across generations, which was essential for the advancement of human societies.
C) Coping with environmental change: Intelligence enabled humans to adapt to a wide range of environments. Our ancestors could create clothing and build shelters to withstand different climates, develop agriculture to ensure a stable food supply, and store food for future use. This adaptability was crucial for migrating to and thriving in diverse habitats across the globe.
D) Getting better quality food: With higher intelligence, early humans learned to hunt more effectively and to gather a wider variety of edible plants. They also developed cooking, which not only made food safer to eat but also more nutritious and easier to digest. This led to an improved diet, which supported brain development and overall health.
In summary, increased intelligence allowed early humans to solve critical problems related to survival and adaptation, including coping with predators, enhancing general cognitive abilities, adapting to environmental changes, and securing better quality food. These advancements laid the foundation for the complex societies we have today.

Question 13

Compare the evolution of bipedalism, dentition, and brain size, and the conclusion is that
A) bipedalism changed earliest, but in steps
B) bipedalism and dentition changed together and in one single event
C) they all evolved at different times and as separate events
D) bipedalism and dentition evolved independently, but as single events; brain size was an ongoing process

Accepted Answer

The evolution of bipedalism, dentition, and brain size in human ancestors represents a complex interplay of anatomical changes that occurred over millions of years. These changes did not happen simultaneously or as a result of a single event, but rather as a series of adaptations to changing environments and lifestyles.
Bipedalism, or the ability to walk upright on two legs, is one of the earliest defining characteristics of the hominin lineage, which includes humans and our direct ancestors. The earliest evidence of bipedalism dates back to around 6 to 7 million years ago with Sahelanthropus tchadensis and Orrorin tugenensis. However, it was not a sudden change; rather, it evolved in steps, with different hominin species showing varying degrees of bipedal adaptation. For example, Australopithecus, which lived between 4 and 2 million years ago, was fully bipedal but still retained some tree-climbing features.
Dentition, or tooth structure, also evolved over time, but not necessarily in direct concert with bipedalism. Early hominins had larger teeth and more robust jaws, suited to a diet that included tough plant material. As some hominin species began to use tools and consume a wider variety of foods, including meat, their dentition changed. Teeth became smaller and jaws less robust, a trend that is particularly evident in the genus Homo.
Brain size in hominins has shown a general trend of increase over time, but this increase was not a single event and did not occur at the same time as changes in bipedalism or dentition. The most significant brain growth occurred later in the hominin timeline, particularly with the emergence of Homo erectus around 2 million years ago, and continued with the evolution of Homo sapiens.
In conclusion, the evidence suggests that bipedalism evolved earliest and in a stepwise fashion, while changes in dentition and brain size occurred at different times and as separate events. This supports the conclusion that bipedalism changed earliest, but in steps (Option A).

Question 14

Chronologically, which came last?
A) cave paintings
B) small sculpted animals
C) Venus statuettes
D) jewelry

Accepted Answer

Jewelry is believed to have been created later than the other items listed, with some of the earliest known pieces dating back to around 25,000 years ago, whereas cave paintings, small sculpted animals, and Venus statuettes are generally older.

Question 15

Which similarity/ies is/are there between biological and cultural change? Both
A) depend on contingency
B) can be said to be inherited
C) have similar rates of change
D) A and B are correct

Accepted Answer

A) Depend on contingency: Both biological evolution and cultural change are influenced by random events and chance occurrences. In biology, genetic mutations may occur randomly and environmental factors can unpredictably affect which traits become advantageous, leading to natural selection. Similarly, cultural changes can be influenced by unforeseen events such as natural disasters, inventions, or encounters with other cultures, which can alter the course of cultural development.
B) Can be said to be inherited: Biological traits are inherited through the genetic information passed down from parents to offspring. Cultural traits, while not genetic, are also inherited in the sense that they are transmitted from one generation to the next through teaching, imitation, and other forms of social learning. Children learn language, customs, values, and knowledge from their parents and community, perpetuating cultural continuity and change.
C) Have similar rates of change: This statement is not necessarily correct. The rates of biological and cultural change can vary widely and are not inherently similar. Biological evolution can occur over millions of years, while cultural change can happen very rapidly, within a single generation or even in a shorter time frame due to the rapid dissemination of information and ideas in human societies.

Question 16

All of the following show important differences between biological evolution and culture change EXCEPT
A) conscious choice of change or not
B) number of individuals involved
C) blending of traits
D) contingency principle

Accepted Answer

Biological evolution and cultural change are both processes that involve change over time, but they operate under different mechanisms and principles. Here's why the other options show important differences between the two:
A) Conscious choice of change or not: Cultural change can be influenced by conscious decisions made by individuals or groups. People can choose to adopt or reject certain cultural practices, innovate new ones, or preserve traditional ones. Biological evolution, on the other hand, does not involve conscious choice. It is driven by natural selection, genetic drift, mutation, and gene flow, which are not processes that organisms can choose to engage in or avoid.
B) Number of individuals involved: Biological evolution typically requires a large population for genetic variation to occur and for natural selection to act upon. Cultural change, however, can be initiated or adopted by a single individual or a small group and then spread to a larger population.
D) Contingency principle: The contingency principle in evolution refers to the idea that evolutionary outcomes are contingent upon a series of historical events and chance occurrences that could have happened differently. Cultural change is also subject to contingency, as historical events and chance encounters can significantly influence the direction and nature of cultural development.
Option C, "blending of traits," does not show an important difference between biological evolution and cultural change because blending of traits is more characteristic of cultural change than biological evolution. In cultural change, ideas and practices can blend together as cultures interact, leading to hybridization and the creation of new cultural elements. In contrast, biological evolution is based on the inheritance of discrete genes, and while genetic recombination can occur, it does not result in the same kind of blending that is seen in cultural change.

Question 17

The biggest problem to the future of our species likely resides in
A) overpopulation
B) technology "taking over"
C) cell phones
D) HIV and other virulent diseases

Accepted Answer

The biggest problem to the future of our species is a complex issue and cannot be attributed to a single cause. However, if we were to consider the options provided:
A) Overpopulation is a significant concern as it puts pressure on resources such as food, water, and energy, and can lead to environmental degradation. As the population grows, the strain on the planet's ecosystems increases, potentially leading to resource scarcity and increased competition, which could threaten global stability.
B) Technology "taking over" is a broad concept that could refer to various issues, such as the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), loss of jobs due to automation, or the potential for digital surveillance to infringe on privacy. While technology has the potential to solve many problems, it also poses risks that need to be managed carefully to prevent negative outcomes.
C) Cell phones, while they have changed the way we communicate and have had social impacts, are not generally considered one of the biggest problems for the future of our species. Issues related to cell phones, such as digital addiction or the impact on mental health, are concerns but are not on the same scale as some of the other challenges listed.
D) HIV and other virulent diseases are indeed a major concern for public health. Pandemics can have devastating effects on populations, economies, and societies. However, with advancements in medicine and public health measures, the impact of such diseases can be mitigated. It is important to continue research and investment in healthcare to prevent and treat these diseases effectively.
In conclusion, while all these issues pose challenges, the biggest problem to the future of our species likely resides in a combination of factors, including but not limited to overpopulation, the misuse or uncontrolled development of technology, and the threat of virulent diseases. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach and global cooperation.

Question 18

Encapsulating the world's demography at the beginning of the new millennium, you would claim all of the following EXCEPT
A) less than 1/3 are "white"
B) less than 1/3 are Christian
C) 60% are female
D) Asians make up the largest percentage

Accepted Answer

This statement is incorrect because the global sex ratio is approximately balanced, with females making up slightly more than half of the world's population, not 60%. According to estimates, the percentage of females in the world's population is typically around 49-51%, not significantly higher. The other statements are more accurate reflections of global demographics:
A) Less than 1/3 are "white" - This is true, as the majority of the world's population is located in Asia and Africa, where the populations are predominantly non-white.
B) Less than 1/3 are Christian - Christianity is one of the world's largest religions, but it does not comprise the majority of the world's population. A significant portion of the world's population adheres to other religions or has no religious affiliation.
D) Asians make up the largest percentage - This is correct, as Asia is the most populous continent, with countries like China and India contributing to a large proportion of the world's population.

Question 19

Discuss your author's conclusions that what made humans human was not a single factor nor did it happen all at the same time.

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Question 20

Discuss the evolution of bipedalism, brain size, and dentition relative to their chronological concordance or disconcordance.

Accepted Answer

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Quiz 16: Conclusions: Who Are We

Making and using tools is not unique to hominids/humans but found in at least three other primate species.

Speech probably evolved from language in a single event.

The authors of this book conclude there is no single factor that made humans human.

Bipedalism occurred in stages, not in one single event.

Early hominids and chimpanzees probably had the same brain size.

Bipedalism, dentition, and brain size evolution all can be seen as chronologically concordant.

The sequence of stone tools is: chopper, core and flake, blade.

Your authors conclude the word "inheritance" should be used only in connection with biological evolution.

Biological change is slow because it adheres to Mendelian genetics but cultural change can be fast because it is Lamarckian in mode.

The authors of this book conclude there are enough similarities between biological and cultural evolution to call them as a single unit "biocultural evolution."

What made humans human?

Intelligence helped make us human. What kind of problems did more intelligence allow us to solve?

Compare the evolution of bipedalism, dentition, and brain size, and the conclusion is that

Chronologically, which came last?

Which similarity/ies is/are there between biological and cultural change? Both

All of the following show important differences between biological evolution and culture change EXCEPT

The biggest problem to the future of our species likely resides in

Encapsulating the world's demography at the beginning of the new millennium, you would claim all of the following EXCEPT

Discuss your author's conclusions that what made humans human was not a single factor nor did it happen all at the same time.

Discuss the evolution of bipedalism, brain size, and dentition relative to their chronological concordance or disconcordance.