Unit 11
Primate Models of Human Evolution

In this unit, we examine the potential use of nonhuman primate models to understand human evolution. We first discuss exactly what primates provide models for in anthropology. We then consider the major criticisms of using primates as models, in light of the unique human characteristics not shared with other primates. We conclude this unit with a discussion of what primates can really teach us about our origins, and about the life of our earliest hominid ancestors.

Objectives

When you have completed Unit 11, you should be able to

1. explain why primates are used as models of human evolution.
2. discuss the different primate models of human evolution, and their origins.
3. list and explain the major limitations of primate models.
4. discuss the reasons why some researchers believe that bonobos are a better model of our early ancestors than other primates.
5. list the possible characteristics shared by the common ancestor and extant apes.
6. explain how primates can be useful in our search to understand our early ancestors.

Viewing Assignment

Watch the video listed below. Note that you must have completed four viewing assignments or four alternative reading assignments before you take the final examination.

National Geographic

1995 The New Chimpanzees. Washington: National Geographic Society.

This video is a survey of thirty years of research on chimpanzees in the wild. The program focuses on the similarities between chimpanzees and early humans through rare and unusual behaviours observed over the years by several researchers. It pays particular attention to the variability of behaviours and cultural traditions found in different populations across Africa. This program also provides an interesting look at chimpanzee intelligence.

1. What is the typical social structure of chimpanzee groups?
2. What are paramilitary patrols, and what is their function?
3. How does the study of chimpanzees help us understand human evolution?
4. What differences in hunting strategies exist between different populations, and why do these differences exist?
5. What are the effects of chimpanzee hunting on the colobus population?
6. What differences exist in meat sharing in the different populations of chimpanzees?
7. What is unusual about some of the infanticide observed among some groups of chimpanzees?
8. In what ways are bonobos different from common chimpanzees?
9. How is dominance different?
10. How is sexual behaviour used in bonobo society?
11. How do females show their infants how to crack open nuts?
12. What differences in tool use exist among different populations of chimpanzees?
13. Why do some chimpanzees swallow some leaves whole?
14. Provide examples of symbolic communication among chimpanzees.

Note: Once you have completed the viewing assignment to your satisfaction, please return the video to the Athabasca University Library as soon as possible: the number of copies is limited, and other students will need it.