With the announcement that a Denisovan finger bone physically resembles modern humans while genetically being more related to Neandertal, I give some context as to how we can know that.
primatology
As Early 2019 Draws to a Close
The first update on the state of things for 2019, I discuss current projects, upcoming ideas, and how I generally plan to keep improving Anthrospin.
And Then There Were Five
A brief look at the several members of our genus who survived until most recent times, including the recently announced Homo luzonensis.
The Future of Paleontology in a Global, Digital World.
Technology potentially allows more researchers than ever before to access more materials than dreamed of just a few decades ago. The push to make that access open source is there. Which way should we go with that information?
Why I Won’t Miss the Missing Link.
The "missing link" is one of the most pervasive ideas in the popular understanding of evolution. I hate it, I'm not alone in hating it, and here's why.
The Unexpected Adventure of Mr. Goaty Goat
Content Warning! The following contains graphic description and images depicting butchering and hide work. It's early 2013. Not super early 2013, but definitely at least the first half. Honestly it could even be the second half of 2012. You see, goats care not for things like years. Today started like most days. … Continue reading The Unexpected Adventure of Mr. Goaty Goat
Bring on 2019! But…let me finish 2018 first.
As 2018 comes to a close, I reflect on what I've accomplished and what I've got planned for 2019, all of which is more exciting than anything Anthrospin has done before.
Evolution’s Place in Anthropology
Anthropology is the study of humans. It's the study of our cultural diversity and developments. Our similarities and differences. It's the study of our history--hopefully without some of the drawbacks of nationalism that History is criticized for. It's the study of our shared heritage. And that includes or place in the Animal Kingdom. So in order to understand the biological aspects of the field of anthropology, we need to have a basic understanding of evolution.
#Impostersyndromesoreal
On imposter syndrome and the difficulties of creativity in a culture that worships celebrity.
Caveman in the Mirror: The Case for Our Closest Cousins.
Neanderthals are the original "missing link." That hypothesized link in the chain that connects us to our ever-more-apelike ancestors. Neanderthals have long been assumed to be "less than" human. In anthropological circles, even in lower level anthropology courses, that assumption has been under debate.
Everyday Anthropology 