Final answer:
Biological anthropology is the study of human evolution, variation, and adaptation, encompassing subfields like paleoanthropology and genetic anthropology. It provides insights into human biology, the cultural diversity of our ancestors, and our species' impact on the environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The study of the evolution, variation, and adaptation of humans and their past and present relatives is called biological anthropology, also known as physical anthropology or evolutionary anthropology. This multidisciplinary field investigates many different aspects of human development and diversity. It encompasses paleoanthropology, which focuses on understanding human origins based on fossils and other remains, human biology, which involves the study of human anatomy, physiology, genetics, evolution, and ecology, and genetic anthropology, which utilizes molecular science to reveal the history of ancient human origins and migration. Biological anthropology provides insights into what it means to be human by exploring our deep past and examining how our species has adapted to diverse climates and environments, ensuring our survival through variation.
Physical anthropologists work in various settings, including academia, where they may be found in departments of anthropology, biology, genetics, or zoology. They contribute to our understanding of the biological evolution of humans by studying adaptation and variability. Moreover, these experts may also consider the cultural diversity of the genus Homo, which has emerged in response to complex environmental factors. Their work helps us to comprehend not only our own species’ development but also our impact on the planet and other species.