chapter 7 Flashcards
why did we evolve big brains?
so that we could communicate and stratigize?
why did we become obligate bipeds?
1: tool use, and dexterity with hands.
2: thermoregulation (reach air flow)
3: efficiency of locomotion (use of energy)
why did we get reduced hair coverage?
tied to the development of sweating a very effective way of thermoregulation system in hot weather.
how did we start hunting and eating meat?
larger body size more effective hunters.
when did the evolution of bigger brains in hominins begin?
4.5m years
what is encephalization quotient(eq)?
formula that allows comparison for brain size to body size
what is an endocranial cast?
shows the brain size of a fossil
what is socialization theory?
group social interaction is more cognitively complex than most other types of behaviour.
successful navigation in social groups, requires each of us to monitor three levels of complexity what are they?
1: keep track of your relationship with every individual.
2: keep track of the relationships others have with individuals.
3: these relationships are always changing.
what is the main purpose of language?
language allows us to more accurately and directly express our desires and intentions.
what gives us the ability of hyper-cooperation?
ability to know what others are thinking (theory of mind) we have the ability to attribute mental states to others
2: ability to understand and appreciate the value of cooperating to achieve a common goal.
3: ability to put our individual goals and emotions on hold to achieve that shared goal
would langauge be used to often assist in group hunts?
no
what is dissembling? or to dissemble
lie or white lie
some major advantages of language?
communicate about the past and future, store information collectively, super charges culture, helps communicate about things that are not present and abstract concepts
what are the two main types of sweat glands that mamals have?
sebaceous glands and eccrine glands.