Introduction to Physical Anthropology

This mainstream, full-color physical anthropology text is the best-selling text in the market! While it continues to present a comprehensive, well-balanced introduction to the field of physical anthropology, this is a major revision and the book has shifted emphases in critical areas of biology, including molecular biology and genetics, to reflect the field as it stands today. The excellent coverage of the fossil record and new fossil finds is maintained in this edition; however the authors have worked to take out excessive detail and clarify the presentation of complex material without sacrificing scholarship. They have also worked hard to eliminate any overly academic prose, and to facilitate critical thinking and student involvement with key chapter opening questions and other enhanced pedagogy. Also new in this edition, is a feature covering cutting edge advances in molecular biology, and expanded coverage of population biology and human variation. An outstanding four-color presentation featuring helpful flow charts, visual summaries, and most significant finds tables, along with maps, photo essays, multimedia, and an engaging writing style continue to provide introductory students with the best possible coverage of the field.