Human Adaptability: An Introduction to Ecological Anthropology

by Emilio F. Moran

Designed to help students understand the multiple levels at which human populations respond to their surroundings, this essential text offers 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 for students and a reference book for professionals are a complete discussion of the development of ecological anthropology and relevant research methods; the use of an ecosystem approach with emphasis on arctic, high altitude, arid land, grassland, tropical rain forest, and urban environments; an extensive and updated bibliography on ecological anthropology; and a comprehensive glossary of technical terms. Entirely new to the third edition are chapters on urban sustainability and methods of spatial analysis, with enhanced emphasis throughout on the role of gender in human-adaptability research and on global environmental change as it affects particular ecosystems. In addition, new sections in each chapter guide students to websites that provide access to relevant material, complement the text's coverage of biomes, and suggest ways to become active in environmental issues.

Genres: Anthropology, Nonfiction

496 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.