ECOL220

In this course we will examine how the Darwinian theory of evolution by natural selection can help us understand and treat human disease. We will explore evolutionary answers to questions such as: Why do parasites harm us? Why do we age? Why do we suffer from allergies or develop cancer? Why do we reproduce sexually? Why do babies cry? Through informal lectures, readings, student presentations, and class discussions students will become exposed to basic evolutionary principles that can be applied not only to medicine, but also to other life sciences and to general understanding of the human condition.