But human history begins in a different place further back in time. It starts at least 4
million years ago, when a population of apelike creatures from eastern Africa turned onto
a unique evolutionary road. Thus, the anthropologist's comparative perspective must be
expanded to include more than prehistoric human societies, for behavior has primate roots
as well. To fully understand humankind we must learn more about its place in the natural
habitat of living things.
Biological (or physical) anthropology looks at Homo sapiens as a genus and species, tracing their biological origins, evolutionary
development, and genetic diversity. Biological anthropologists study the biocultural
prehistory of Homo to understand human nature and, ultimately, the evolution of the brain
and nervous system itself.
