Universität Wien

300124 SE Concepts in Evolutionary Theory (2025S)

How unique are humans in mammalian context ?

2.00 ECTS (1.00 SWS), SPL 30 - Biologie
Continuous assessment of course work
Moodle
Th 26.06. 15:00-16:00 Seminarraum 1.2, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.004, Ebene 1

Registration/Deregistration

Note: The time of your registration within the registration period has no effect on the allocation of places (no first come, first served).

Details

max. 20 participants
Language: English

Lecturers

Classes (iCal) - next class is marked with N

This seminar takes place in person. Only the seminar on March 13th will be online, and the seminar on the 22nd of May is canceled.

  • Thursday 06.03. 15:00 - 16:00 Seminarraum 1.6, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.011, Ebene 1
  • Thursday 13.03. 15:00 - 16:00 Digital
  • Thursday 20.03. 15:00 - 16:00 Seminarraum 1.2, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.004, Ebene 1
  • Thursday 27.03. 15:00 - 16:00 Seminarraum 1.2, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.004, Ebene 1
  • Thursday 03.04. 15:00 - 16:00 Seminarraum 1.2, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.004, Ebene 1
  • Thursday 10.04. 15:00 - 16:00 Seminarraum 1.2, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.004, Ebene 1
  • Thursday 08.05. 15:00 - 16:00 Seminarraum 1.2, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.004, Ebene 1
  • Thursday 15.05. 15:00 - 16:00 Seminarraum 1.2, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.004, Ebene 1
  • Thursday 05.06. 15:00 - 16:00 Seminarraum 1.2, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.004, Ebene 1
  • Thursday 12.06. 15:00 - 16:00 Seminarraum 1.2, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.004, Ebene 1

Information

Aims, contents and method of the course

Humans are a unique species, or are they? Have you ever wondered if we really are unique; and, if so, what really sets us apart from other primates or mammals more generally? In this seminar, we will critically examine the concept of human uniqueness. We will discuss a set of particular topics related to human uniqueness in a comparative mammalian context. Are our brains as special as we like to think they are? Is difficult and dangerous childbirth confined to humans, and are our babies really larger than those of other mammals? Do only humans show homosexual orientation, and what are the possible benefits of non-heterosexual behavior? These questions, among others, show us that even our distant zoological relatives can help us understand human biology and behavior.

Assessment and permitted materials

The required work for this seminar is reading and discussion of typically 1 paper per week. Everyone will be asked to contribute their view on that week's paper. Together, we will critically reflect on the arguments presented.

Minimum requirements and assessment criteria

Presence, reading of 1 paper per week, and active participation in the discussion.

Examination topics

There is no exam. The grade derives from : presence (49%) and active discussion (51%).

Reading list

Literature will be provided in the course on Moodle.

Association in the course directory

MZO4, MZO W3, MAN 3

Last modified: Sa 01.03.2025 10:26