Question 1

Which of the following best describes the core error in applying Social Darwinism to human societies?

Accepted Answer

It assumes that social and economic success is solely determined by inherited biological traits, ignoring environmental and systemic factors.

Question 2

A 19th-century industrialist argues that his wealth is proof of his biological superiority and that government aid to the poor would harm society. Which ideology is he most likely expressing?

Accepted Answer

Social Darwinism

Question 3

Which of the following is NOT a principle of natural selection as described by Charles Darwin?

Accepted Answer

All traits acquired during an individual's lifetime are inherited by offspring.

Question 4

A forensic anthropologist is tasked with identifying remains from a mass grave. Which of the following steps is LEAST likely to be part of their process?

Accepted Answer

Assigning social status based on skull shape alone.

Question 5

Which anatomical feature is a key indicator of bipedalism in early hominins?

Accepted Answer

An S-shaped spine

Question 6

Why is the concept of 'breeding out' undesirable traits in humans, as advocated by eugenicists, scientifically flawed?

Accepted Answer

It ignores the distinction between genetic inheritance and cultural or learned behaviors.

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why skin color varies among human populations?

Accepted Answer

It is an adaptation to different levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in various environments.

Question 8

Which of the following statements about the relationship between humans and chimpanzees is supported by physical anthropology?

Accepted Answer

Humans and chimpanzees share a common ancestor and approximately 98.5% of their DNA.

Question 9

Which of the following is a major criticism of Social Darwinism from a scientific perspective?

Accepted Answer

It misinterprets evolution by assuming a linear progression toward perfection and ignores the reality of common ancestry.

Question 10

Which hominin species is known as 'Handy Man' and is recognized for being the first to use stone tools?

Accepted Answer

Homo habilis

Question 11

A student claims that Neanderthals were a less evolved species than Homo sapiens. Based on current anthropological understanding, how should you respond?

Accepted Answer

Both Neanderthals and Homo sapiens are equally evolved, having adapted to their respective environments from a common ancestor.

Question 12

Which of the following is a unique trait of Homo sapiens compared to other hominins?

Accepted Answer

The physical ability for speech and the development of abstract ideas and beliefs.

Question 13

Which of the following best illustrates the principle of 'collective learning' as seen in Homo erectus?

Accepted Answer

The ability to retain and improve upon information across generations, such as the use of fire.

Question 14

A government justifies its colonial expansion by claiming it has a duty to 'uplift' less developed nations. Which concept from the study materials does this most closely reflect?

Accepted Answer

The 'White Man's Burden' as a Social Darwinist rationale for imperialism.

Question 15

Which of the following is a key difference between hominids and hominins?

Accepted Answer

Hominins include modern humans and their immediate ancestors after the split from chimpanzees, while hominids include all great apes and their ancestors.

Question 16

Which of the following best summarizes the modern scientific consensus on the legacy of Social Darwinism?

Accepted Answer

It serves as a warning of how scientific ideas can be distorted to justify injustice and is thoroughly debunked by modern biology.

Question 17

Which of the following is a correct application of forensic anthropology in a human rights context?

Accepted Answer

Using DNA analysis to identify victims of mass violence and provide evidence in genocide trials.

Question 18

Which of the following is a scientifically accurate statement about genetic variation among human populations?

Accepted Answer

There is more genetic variation within a single racial group than between different racial groups.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the main argument of labor advocates against Social Darwinism in the late 19th century?

Accepted Answer

Poverty is a result of systemic injustice, not inherent biological weakness.

Question 20

Which of the following is NOT a trait shared by humans and other primates, according to primatology?

Accepted Answer

The physical ability for complex spoken language.

Physical Anthropology and the Misapplication of Evolution: Social Darwinism, Eugenics, and Human Evolution

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