Human Adaptability: An Introduction to Ecological Anthropology

by Emilio F. Moran, Rhonda Gillet-netting

This is the first text to thoroughly cover nongenetic strategies of human adaptation to a variety of ecosystems. Designed to help students understand the multiple levels at which human populations respond to their surroundings, it is the most complete discussion of environmental, physiological, behavioral, and cultural adaptive strategies available. Among the unique features that make Human Adaptability outstanding as both a textbook and a reference are a complete discussion of the development of ecological anthropology and of relevant research methods; the use of an ecosystem approach with emphasis on arctic, high altitude, arid land, grassland, and tropical rain forest environments; the most extensive bibliography on ecological anthropology published to date, with over 700 references both classic and recent; and a comprehensive glossary of technical terms. In this updated edition, the author also addresses the impact of political economy, global environment change, demography, and health in the study of human ecology.

Genres: Anthropology, Nonfiction

400 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1979

Reviews

[Madhusudan Katti · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm using this as a textbook for a new upper division undergrad course in Human Ecology this semester. I like the broad interdisciplinary perspective Moran brings to bridge biology and anthropology based approaches to studying humans. It seems to be working well so far, but I wonder if the students need a better background knowledge of the theoretical frameworks - will graduate students get more out of it than undergrads? Perhaps. Ask me again at the end of the semester!

[Ash Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the 4th edition and loved it. Reads really well!

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is so up my alley. I think that the environment plays a critical role in human nature, but we (U.S.) often ignore it because of our life style. What makes this book interesting is looking at the role environment plays in the adaptation of culture.