Human Biology: Concepts and Current Issues

by Michael D. Johnson

Human Concepts and Current Issues , Fifth Edition sparks interest among non-science readers by encouraging them to connect basic biology concepts to real-world issues that are relevant to their own lives. As an award-winning teacher, author Michael Johnson demystifies the scientific process and the concepts of human biology, using a narrative style to tell a story with a reader-friendly approach. Genetic testing, antioxidants, and the black market for bones are just a few of the timely topics that are woven throughout each chapter to engage readers in learning the basics of human biology. Michael Johnson’s jargon-free writing style and expanded coverage of current issues are supported by dozens of exciting new illustrations and photos that further engage reader interest, while unique “Try It Yourself” boxes promote active learning. The Fifth Edition includes completely updated and redesigned art, as well as an increased focus on critical thinking. Human Biology’s expanded supplements package features Interactive Physiology ® for Human Biology with a new module on the Immune System, which provides a wealth of outstanding animations, activities, and self-testing that can be used in lectures or as a study tool outside of the classroom. Other supplements include the new Teaching Tool Box, the Human Biology Support Manual, a wealth of media and animations, and a revised Study Guide. Human Biology, Science, and Society, The Chemistry of Living Things, Structure and Function of Cells, From Cells to Organ Systems, The Skeletal System, The Muscular System, Blood, Heart and Blood Vessels, The Immune System and Mechanisms of Defense, The Respiratory Exchange of Gases, The Nervous Integration and Control, Sensory Mechanisms, The Endocrine System, The Digestive System, The Urinary System, Reproductive Systems, Cell Reproduction and Differentiation, Uncontrolled Cell Division and Differentiation, Genetics and Inheritance, DNA Technology and Genetic Engineering, Development and Aging, Evolution and the Origins of Life, Ecosystems and Populations, Human Impacts, Biodiversity, and Environmental Issues MARKET : For all readers interested in learning about human biology.

Genres: Textbooks, Science, Reference, Nonfiction

640 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2000

Reviews

[Caydance Newton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had to read this textbook for a Human Biology college class. I do have to say though that it is not a boring textbook! Every chapter was interesting and informational. Each bodily system is separated into individual chapters, focusing in on every little detail. I would definitely read this again just for fun!

[Kathleena Paul · Rating 2 out of 5]

As a sociology student, this textbook made me cringe. Johnson gave the impression that he is utterly clueless regarding the social complexities of being 'healthy' and came across as totally insensitive. Like, he'd be the kind of dinner guest who gives unsolicited 'health' advice to all your guests, spouts fat-phobic rhetoric all night and then when you counter that the medical field has a deeply intrenched history of misogyny and paternalistic approaches to women's health, he wouldn't have a fucking clue what you were talking about (for example maybe women are statistically less likely to not seek medical attention for a heart attack because we've been told to look for symptoms that are actually more likely to occur in men and thus we aren't properly equipped to watch out for the appropriate symptoms of a heart attack. And this could be due to the medical profession historically solely studying and focusing on men's health??). Ugh. Note to author: I will happily teach you a thing or two about the social determinants of health, as you desperately need a lesson, bio-man.
With that said, the body is fucking amazing!

[s · Rating 2 out of 5]

It's readable and does a good job of covering many different aspects of human physiology and relating them to both human health and current events. That said, it does an exceptionally poor job of articulating key concepts. My non-bio-major students (and I!) really struggled to identify general messages in each chapter, beyond the collection of specific biological facts.

As a result, my students found it difficult to absorb everything over the course of the semester. In retrospect, I would have benefited from learning to use the electronic teaching resources. The supplemental videos weren't terribly useful, but using the quiz modules and getting automatic scores and reports could have been quite valuable. In particular it would have facilitated more frequent and narrowly-focused quizes, which my students felt would have kept them on-task without overwhelming them.

But even more, I think my needs would have been better met by a more abstract textbook that (a) was bigger-picture and less detail-oriented and (b) emphasized more how students could investigate health topics as needed and apply that knowledge to real-world decisions (first-aid, behavior, insurance, policy).

[Donna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read the 6th edition, and read it my first biology class ever, I was amazed at all the wonderful workings of the human body. I feel there were some comments from the author that could have been left out. If he wants to have a blog, which he does, that's fine but he should leave his personal opinions out. It was adequate, and necessary to learning my coursework.

[Alissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

jeez. this was such a GOOD read. very INFORMATIVE. i would DEFINITELY suggest that everyone read this book. from beginning. to end. ;)

[Britney · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://payhip.com/briscollegebooks get the book here.