Why Would a Paleontologist New to His or Her Profession

question 24

Multiple Choice

Why would a paleontologist new to his or her profession who has decided to study human origins choose to focus his or her field work in Africa?

• A) The vast majority of previous fossil finds regarding human origins have been discovered on the African continent.
• B) The vast majority of Africa has not been explored for fossils of human ancestors; he or she would therefore be looking in areas where no one has found fossils before.
• C) Although fossils of human ancestors have not been discovered on the African continent, DNA analysis of modern human genomes suggests they should be found there.
• D) Due to political change, many nations in Africa are much easier to travel to than previously.

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Definitions:

Collective Consciousness

The set of shared beliefs, ideas, and moral attitudes which operate as a unifying force within society.

Collective Conscious

A collection of common beliefs, thoughts, and ethical views that act as a cohesive element in society.

Mechanical Societies

Sociological concept referring to traditional, pre-industrial societies where social cohesion and integration come from a homogeneity of individuals, as opposed to the interdependence of differentiated roles.

Organic Societies

Societies characterized by complex interdependence of parts, akin to organisms, where differentiation of functions exists for the overall wellbeing.