module

Postgraduate Module Descriptor

ANTM113: Humans and Other Primates

This module descriptor refers to the 2021/2 academic year.

Module Content

Syllabus Plan

The module will start by exploring the shared phylogenetic heritage within the primate order. A brief introduction to human and nonhuman primate evolution will be followed by a critical evaluation of the ways in which contemporary nonhuman primates are utilised as models in a bid to better understand human origins. The module will also consider the work of prominent primatologists and situate their research within historical context. An engagement with empirical data concerning the behavioural ecology of nonhuman primates will then allow for a consideration of the various theoretical debates which surround research concerning our closest biological relatives. These could include questions of anthropomorphism, language and communication, culture and tool use and the 'myth' of human exceptionalism. The second part of the module will be concerned with exploring contemporary human interactions with nonhuman primates in a range of settings and focussing on a host of important contemporary issues such as conflict for resources, the bushmeat trade, the use of nonhuman primates in biomedical research, the representation of primates in popular culture and the keeping of other primates in captivity.

Learning and Teaching

This table provides an overview of how your hours of study for this module are allocated:

...and this table provides a more detailed breakdown of the hours allocated to various study activities:

Online Resources

This module has online resources available via ELE (the Exeter Learning Environment).