Updated and rewritten version of first edition, published under title: Human evolution : trails from the past (Oxford biology) / Camilo J. Cela-Conde and Francisco J. Ayala. 2007.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 503-552) and index.

1. Evolution, genetics, and systematics -- 2. Taxonomy -- 3. The hominin lineage -- 4. Miocene and Lower Pliocene hominins -- 5. Middle and Upper Pliocene hominins -- 6. The emergence of the genus Homo -- 7. Lithic traditions : tool-making -- 8. Middle and Lower Pleistocene : the Homo radiation -- 9. Hominin transition to Upper Pliocene -- 10. Species of the Upper Pleistocene -- 11. Neanderthals and modern humans : similarities and differences.

The discoveries of the last decade have brought about a completely revised understanding of human evolution, due to the recent advances in genetics, palaeontology, ecology, archaeology, geography, and climate science. Written by two leading authorities in the fields of physical anthropology and molecular evolution, Processes in Human Evolution presents a reconsidered overview of hominid evolution, synthesising data and approaches from a range of inter-disciplinary fields. The authors pay particular attention to population migrations, since these are crucial in understanding the origin and dispersion of the different genera and species in each continent, and to the emergence of the lithic cultures and their impact on the evolution of the cognitive capacities. Processes in Human Evolution is intended as a primary textbook for university courses on human evolution, and may also be used as supplementary reading in advanced undergraduate and graduate courses. It is also suitable for interested lay-readers seeking a readable but up-to-date and inclusive treatment of human origins and evolution.-- Publisher's website.

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