SCI1200: Humans, evolution and modern society

Overview

Evolution has shaped and continues to shape humans and the world in which we live. Some of the most challenging issues facing society such as the battle of the sexes, war and violence, population growth and even the global obesity epidemic can be understood through the process of evolution. An evolutionary perspective also equips us to address emerging issues such as the manipulation of human behaviour, spread of infectious diseases, the rise of allergies, the ethics of cloning, food security, and the biodiversity crisis. This unit will highlight how an appreciation of evolution can transform our understanding of the human condition, modern society, and the profound global challenges that we are currently facing - enabling us to develop robust and creative solutions for the future.

Assessment

1 - Mini quiz 1 - 10% 2 - Mini quiz 2 - 10% 3 - Mini quiz 3 - 10% 4 - Mini quiz 4 - 10% 5 - Research proposal - 5% 6 - Infographic - 15% 7 - News article - 40%

Workload

The unit will consist of one two-hour lecture per week and one two-hour workshop per fortnight You will need to conduct approximately 8 hours of personal study each week in order to satisfy the reading and assignment requirements.

Global challenges

Our Strategic Plan, Impact 2030, charts the path for how Monash will actively respond to climate change, preserving geopolitical security and fostering thriving communities over the next decade. Read more

This unit covers content related to the following Global Challenges:

Geopolitical Security, Thriving Communities

Sustainable development goals

Adopted by the UN Member States in 2015, the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), are an urgent call for action by all countries - developed and developing - in a global partnership. Read more

This unit covers content related to the following SDGs:

2. Zero Hunger 3. Good Health and Well-Being 5. Gender Equality 14. Life Below Water 15. Life on Land