Evolution of Cognition

Anna Dornhaus
Fall 2019
Tuesdays |  
1 PM - 3 PM
September 24, October 1, 15, 22, 29, November 5, 12, December 3, 10, and 17, 2019
Course Format: Hybrid
Location: Main Campus
Tuition: $185

This course is now sold out. Click here to join the course wait list.
If space opens up we will contact those on the wait list on a first come, first served basis.

Why are humans such a unique species on earth—or are we? We often think our intelligence (or more scientifically “cognition”) is special. But what does “intelligence” really mean? Why are we so good at solving some problems and yet fail at others? And how can our own brain size matter when insects can use tools, navigate huge areas, maybe even use “language” although their brains are no bigger than a pinhead? Behavioral ecology can explain a lot about why animals act the way they do, and we will examine how this applies to our own lives, particularly with regard to cognitive skills. We will also discuss the pitfalls in trying to understand our own minds, and in understanding other minds, and we’ll review what is known and what is not understood about animal intelligence.

Registration Opens Online: Monday, August 12, 2019 at 8AM (AZ Time)

Required Reading

No textbook is required. All readings and class materials will be distributed to students electronically.

Meet Your Instructor

Professor

ANNA DORNHAUS is University of Arizona professor in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. With a PhD from the University of Wuerzburg (2002), she’s mentored over 180 students across different degree programs and actively promotes science education through hands-on experiments and teacher training sessions to inspire K-12 students.

Location

POETRY CENTER
Dorothy Rubel Room
1508 E Helen
Tucson, AZ 85721
United States

Located on the SE corner of Helen Street and Vine Avenue, one block north of Speedway and three blocks west of Campbell Ave.

Street map image of Poetry Center

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